Multilayered carbon nanotube/polymer composite based thermoelectric fabrics.

Thermoelectrics are materials capable of the solid-state conversion between thermal and electrical energy. Carbon nanotube/polymer composite thin films are known to exhibit thermoelectric effects, however, have a low figure of merit (ZT) of 0.02. In this work, we demonstrate individual composite films of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) that are layered into multiple element modules that resemble a felt fabric. The thermoelectric voltage generated by these fabrics is the sum of contributions from each layer, resulting in increased power output. Since these fabrics have the potential to be cheaper, lighter, and more easily processed than the commonly used thermoelectric bismuth telluride, the overall performance of the fabric shows promise as a realistic alternative in a number of applications such as portable lightweight electronics.

Carbon nanotube--poly(3-octylthiophene) composite photovoltaic cells.

The effects of varying nanotube loading/concentration in carbon nanotube-poly(3-octylthiophene) blends used as thin film photovoltaic cells, have been studied. The network of single walled nanotubes clearly aids in exciton separation and modifies carrier mobility within the active layer as suggested by a bulk heterojunction model. Further, modifications to the metal-polymer interface occur with the addition of nanotubes leading to variations in the observed VOC of the photovoltaic cells. Finally, the "nanocomposite" devices exhibit significant enhancements to external power conversion efficiencies, with the overall efficiency strongly dependent on device design parameters such as the addition of buffer layers.

Controlled fabrication of a biological vascular substitute.

Autologous and synthetic vessel grafts have been used as a vascular substitute for cardiovascular bypass procedures. However, these materials are limited by the availability of appropriate caliber autologous vessels, increased susceptibility to thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia following surgery. Electrospinning technology offers the potential for controlling composition, structure and mechanical properties of biomaterials. Vascular graft scaffolds have been fabricated using electrospun polymer blends of Type I collagen, elastin from ligamentum nuchae, and poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide). This study demonstrates improved electrospinning characteristics versus previous studies by increasing polymer concentration and adding PLGA to the polymer blend. Additionally, new in vitro biocompatibility and mechanical testing data is presented. The scaffolds possess tissue composition and mechanical properties similar to native vessels. The electrospun vessel matrix is biocompatible and does not elicit local or systemic toxic effects when implanted in vivo. This study demonstrates the promise of electrospinning as a fabrication process for a functional vascular graft for clinical use.

Morphology effects on the optical properties of silver nanoparticles.

Employing methods developed for the control of shape and size in silver nanoparticles, we have compared the optical properties of nanorods, nanoprisms, nanodisks, and nanospheres. Solutions of these particles show distinct surface plasmon resonant absorption signatures that are directly correlated with the symmetries of their morphology. Nonlinear optical behavior for suspensions of these nanostructures, for nanosecond pulses at 532 and 1064 nm, have been correlated to plasmon resonances determined by shape and size.