Exploring Process-Structure-Property Linkages for Slot Die Extruded Filtration Membranes
Abstract:

Slot die extrusion is a manufacturing process for thin films that offers several benefits over other methods (such as doctor blade or spin coating) in process control and scalability while allowing for continuous processing. Much of the research of this process has been directed at how combinations of process parameters result in defects in the film. But how is the final membrane structure affected by processing parameters during defect free casting? Is it possible to tune the process to improve the final film/membrane properties/performance?

This talk will discuss the preliminary investigations into how to apply to the Materials Knowledge System framework to finding process-structure-property linkages in cellulose acetate filtration membranes produced using slot die extrusion and analyzed using micro computed tomography.

Bio:

Peter Griffiths is a second year PhD student in the School of Mechanical Engineering working for Dr. Tequila Harris in the Polymer Thin Films Processing Group studying thin film manufacturing. He is particularly interested in computational modeling of nano-composite solutions that exhibit viscoelastic flow behavior to better understand structure-process-function relationships. His goal is to develop computational tools to model the process physics to tailor particle distributions and material properties during thin film manufacture, for varying applications.

Peter previously attended the University of Florida where he earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering in 2006. During his undergraduate studies, he interned for the Aviation Division of General Electric, which led to a position in the Edison Engineering Development Program upon graduation. He returned to school full-time to earn a M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of South Florida in 2013, studying the force and wetting phenomenon involved in using droplets to transport wafers. Peter’s current interests outside of his academic pursuits includes running, racquetball, team sports, cooking, and history. 

*Our next Chalk-Talk is scheduled for Thursday, April 7, with discussions led by first year FLAMEL trainee Chris Shartrand.  For a list of this semester’s upcoming talks, please visit http://flamel.gatech.edu/newsroom