Research
Fuel Cells
In light of global warming concerns and the ever-present need for domestic energy sources, never before has there been a call for the development of new energy systems that operate efficiently and cleanly on renewable fuels (like biofuels and potentially hydrogen) and abundant domestic fossil fuels. One such energy system is solid-oxide fuel cell, or SOFC technology. SOFC's offer many advantages over other fuel energy conversion devices due to its high efficiency, high heat-recovery capabilities and fuel flexibility. The operation of SOFCs depends upon the reduction and incorporation of O 2- ions into an electrolyte material, and the transport of these ions across the electrolyte to the anode where the fuel is oxidized. SOFCs operate at higher temperatures (500-1000°C) where the electrolyte diffusivity of O 2- ions is high, while the electrolyte membrane remains an electronic insulator. The electrodes on each side of the electrolyte membrane provide both an electrical connection and electrocatalytic sites for oxygen reduction (cathode electrode) and fuel oxidation (anode electrode).
Smart Sensors
Smart sensor materials are essential to provide real-time accurate measurements
under challenging extreme harsh environment conditions for various applications.
Flexible Tactile Sensors for Robotic Application
Smart Embedded Sensors for High Temperature Energy Systems
RF-Based Passive Wireless Sensors
We work on developing strategies and processing methodology to fabricate and evaluate “peel and stick” inductor-capacitor (LC) based passive wireless sensor for harsh environmental application. Current work also involves evaluating various inorganic and filled polymers for polymer derived ceramics for 2D/3D printing application.
Actuators
Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites (IPMCs), as electromechanical sensors and actuators, offer large displacement responses to low applied voltages. These materials are being proposed for use in soft robotic actuators, artificial muscles, wearables, and dynamic sensors. Still, challenges exist involving ionic electroactive material’s sensitivity to temperature, humidity, and electrical load history. This research investigates the pattern-ability of these thin-film (~50 -150 μm thick) actuators and characterize their electroactive response. Currently, actuators comprising of Nafion impregnated with dispersed platinum and/or silver nanoparticles are being fabricated in various geometries for dynamic flow control schemes.
Microwave Processing and Ultrafast Sintering of Ceramics
Harsh Environment Sensors
Critical Material Separation
Chemical Sensors
Lithium-Ion Batteries