NANOCOMPOSITES RESEARCH

The Edison Polymer Innovation Corporation (EPIC) announced it has begun a close working relationship with Principia Partners on nanocomposites. EPIC is providing technical guidance to assist the materials-focused market research firm in conducting a study of nanocomposites' commercial potential.

The research consortium has planned a three year, $3 to $6 million program that involves more than 20 research projects at five leading research universities. Their "core technology" will support applied research in four application areas: Thermoplastics, Coatings, Elastomers, and Advanced Composites. Each application program will develop technology and products to exploit the mechanical, barrier and reinforcement properties of the nanoparticles.

Nylon- and epoxy-based nanocomposites are currently commercially available, although nanocomposites based on polypropylene and PET are under development. A broad range of other polymers, ranging from EVOH to fluoropolymers are being evaluated in nanocomposite forms for use in packaging and consumer durables markets.

For more information, on EPIC and the research consortium, contact Jon Collister, 330-668-9412 or Chuck Rivenburgh, 330-668-9415; on Principia Partners, contact Lou Rossi, 610-458-3738, Web: www.principiaconsulting.com.