Ashok Misra

Research Interests:

Structure property correlations in polymer systems:

The systems studied included polymer blends and alloys (including reactive processing), semi-crystalline polymers, liquid crystalline polymers, self-reinforcing composites (blends of LCP and conventional polymers) and thermoplastic composites.  Morphology and mechanical properties determined for most systems

Oriented films: Processing, properties and morphology

Stretch induced phase transformations in PVDF studied at various processing conditions. Uniaxial stretching was carried out on cast and blown films to obtain the B-phase in PVDF, which possess the high piezoelectric constant. Establish the best processing conditions for the formation PVDF films and to obtain electrical grade PVDF films.  Effect of select additives on B-phase formation determined.

Polymer-layered silicate nanocomposites:

PET-clay nanocomposites made using the melt-intercalation process. The special features of intercalation and exfoliation characterized. The aim was to develop materials for engineering and other applications.

Carbon nanotubes filled Polymer Composites

Preparation and properties of Polyamide 6 / PET reinforced with carbon nanotubes. Fundamental challenges of CNT dispersion in polymer matrix were studied. Electrical and mechanical properties were determined. The aim was to develop unique materials possessing enhanced electrical properties for electrical applications..