Recent research into the effect of nanoparticle organization on the electrical properties of nanocomposite films was used to create a hands-on laboratory for undergraduate education in nanomanufacturing. Students created two composites using solvent-based solution and polymer emulsion to show that a non-random microstructure can produce the required electrical conductivity with less added nanoparticles. Students evaluated the materials by 4-point probe and scanning electron microscopy.

Volume Subject Area:
Mechanical Engineering Education
Topics:
Mechanical properties, Nanocomposites, Nanoparticles, Self-assembly, Undergraduate students, Students, Composite materials, Education, Electrical conductivity, Electrical properties, Emulsions, Nanomanufacturing, Polymers, Probes, Scanning electron microscopy
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KK5.2.1–KK5.2.6
KK5.2.1–KK5.2.6
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