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The University of Iowa has been awarded a grant to work jointly with PCT Engineered Systems, LLC to study electron beam (EB) induced polymerization. The grant is part of the GOALI program of the National Science Foundation (NSF). The GOALI (Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with
Industry) program is aimed to synergize industry-university partnerships by making project funds available to industry/university linkages. The 3-year, $339,900 grant will support research at the University under the direction of Julie Jessop, Associate Professor of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering and member of the I/UCRC Photopolymerization Center. The I/UCRC is well known for leading edge research on UV initiated polymerization. This program will expand research to EB technology.
PCT Engineered Systems is a leading supplier of low energy EB Systems. PCT BroadBeam systems range from laboratory systems to high speed industrial systems up to 130 inches wide. The GOALI program at PCT will be led by Stephen Lapin, Ph.D., who is the Applications Specialist for the Company.
EB induced polymerization has been used on industrial scale for more than 25 years for the curing of inks, coatings, and adhesives. The program entitled “EB Polymerization: Advanced Characterization of Curing Processes and Polymer Materials” will take a fundamental look at the technology. The goal is to expand the understanding of the process and the resulting polymer materials. This improved understanding will facilitate the use of EB technology to produce improved materials for new applications.
The University of Iowa is located in Iowa City, and PCT Engineered Systems is located in Davenport, Iowa. The close proximity of these facilities will allow EB processing of materials at PCT followed by characterization at the University.