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Moacanin, J.

Publications and source records attributed to Moacanin, J..

At least 55 records · Page 3

Viscoelastic properties of entangled polymers - Ternary blends of monodisperse homopolymers

In a previous publication from this laboratory, the Rouse-Bueche-Zimm molecular theory of viscoelasticity has been extended by using a transient network model to apply to binary blends of monodisperse polymers with chain entanglements. The dynamics of the entanglements were modeled both by the enhanced frictional coefficients and by the additional elastic couplings. It was recognized that entanglements not only may form between chains of the same lengths (intracomponent entanglements) but also between those of different lengths (intercomponent entanglements). At a given intercomponent entanglement, the longer chain was assumed to have the frictional coefficient of the shorter chain. Similarly, for blends consisting of several monodisperse components with different molecular weights, such modifications are also required to predict their linear viscoelastic behavior. The frequency of these interactions is assumed to be proportional to the weight ratio of the respective component chains in the blend. Equations of motion are formulated for each component and solved numerically for the relaxation time spectra. Linear viscoelastic properties such as the dynamic mechanical moduli, stress relaxation moduli, and zero-shear viscosity can then be computed for these systems by linear summation of those of the components.

Soong, D.↗

Effects of space environment on composites: An analytical study of critical experimental parameters

A generalized methodology currently employed at JPL, was used to develop an analytical model for effects of high-energy electrons and interactions between electron and ultraviolet effects. Chemical kinetic concepts were applied in defining quantifiable parameters; the need for determining short-lived transient species and their concentration was demonstrated. The results demonstrates a systematic and cost-effective means of addressing the issues and show qualitative and quantitative, applicable relationships between space radiation and simulation parameters. An equally important result is identification of critical initial experiments necessary to further clarify the relationships. Topics discussed include facility and test design; rastered vs. diffuse continuous e-beam; valid acceleration level; simultaneous vs. sequential exposure to different types of radiation; and interruption of test continuity.

Gupta, A.↗

Physical/chemical modeling for photovoltaic module life prediction

The paper presents a generalized methodology for identification and evaluation of potential degradation and failure of terrestrial photovoltaic encapsulation. Failure progression modeling and an interaction matrix are utilized to complement the conventional approach to failure degradation mode identification. Comparison of the predicted performance based on these models can produce: (1) constraints on system or component design, materials or operating conditions, (2) qualification (predicted satisfactory function), and (3) uncertainty. The approach has been applied to an investigation of an unexpected delamination failure; it is being used to evaluate thermomechanical interactions in photovoltaic modules and to study corrosion of contacts and interconnects.

Moacanin, J.↗

Solid state photochemistry of polycarbonates

The quantum yield of photoFries rearrangement in a polycarbonate film has been analyzed as a function of temperature and humidity on the basis of previously reported (Koyler and Mann, 1977) experimental data. Results indicate that in the homogeneous amorphous phase, photoFries rearrangement is a concerted process proceeding either from the pi star reversed arrow n singlet, in which case it must be subject to considerable self quenching, or from a triplet, presumably the first triplet since the lifetime of higher triplets is expected to be very short in the solid phase. If the parent excited state is the first triplet, chain scission is possibly an independent process, probably occurring from the pi star reversed arrow n singlet. Evidence of chain scission on photodegradation in the solid state includes loss of C-O and C-C bond intensities revealed in the Fourier transform infrared spectra, gel permeation chromotography elution profiles of degraded film samples dissolved in CHCl3, and a decrease in tensile strength and T sub g as photodegradation proceeds. Chain scission is apparently inhibited as photoFries products accumulate.

Gupta, A.↗

Dip-molded t-shaped cannula

Cannula, fabricated out of polyetherurethane, has been designed for long-term service. Improved cannula is T-shaped to collect blood from both directions, thus replacing two conventional cannulas that are usually required and eliminating need for large surgical wound. It is fabricated by using dip-molding process that can be adapted to other elastomeric objects having complex shapes. Dimensions of cannula were chosen to optimize its blood-flow properties and to reduce danger of excessive clotting, making it suitable for continuous service up to 21 days in vein or artery of patient.

Broyles, H. F.↗

Method of making hollow elastomeric bodies

Annular elastomeric bodies having intricate shapes are cast by dipping a heated, rotating mandrel into a solution of the elastomer, permitting the elastomer to creep into sharp recesses, drying the coated mandrel and repeating the operation until the desired thickness has been achieved. A bladder for a heart assist pump in which a cylindrical body terminating in flat, sharp horizontal flanges fabricated by this procedure has been subjected to over 2,500 hours of simulated life conditions with no visible signs of degradation.

Broyles, H. F.↗

A generalization of the Boltzmann superposition principle to polymer networks undergoing scission

Methods reported by Moacanin et al. (1975) and Moacanin and Aklonis (1971) are generalized with the objective to include strains (or stress) applied in an arbitrary manner to linearly viscoelastic materials. An imposition of changes in both the strain and the density of elastically effective chains in discrete increments is considered. In accordance with the Boltzmann superposition principle, each strain increment may be treated as a new independent experiment which adds linearly to the total response of the system.

Moacanin, J.↗

Analytical investigations employing dynamic mechanical properties

Dynamic mechanical spectroscopy has emerged as an effective laboratory method for analytical investigations of polymers. These methods were applied in investigating the property changes of silicone poppets implanted in artificial heart valves, and for exploring the cause of hardening of certain solid propellants. As a research activity, the property-structure relations which lead to the ability to superimpose dynamic data for epoxy resins were investigated.

Cuddihy, E. F.↗

Recent advances in elastomer service-life prediction

The mechanical properties of an elastomer, including rupture and its time dependence, are defined uniquely by a tensile property surface in normalized stress-strain-time coordinates. In practice, the property surface is determined from short-time constant strain-rate uniaxial tests. By using the time reduction properties of both temperature and cross-link density, an effective time scale of over ten decades of log time can be covered. Changes in cross-link density, filler content, or swelling do not affect the limits of the property surface when plotted in logarithmic coordinates but merely shift their positions. The shape, however, may be modified in certain cases. The service life of an elastomer in the absence of aging reactions can be estimated from the property surface and expected in-use conditions such as strains (static or dynamic).

Landel, R. F.↗

Lifetime estimates for sterilizable silver-zinc battery separators

The lifetime of separator membranes currently employed in the electrolyte environment of silver-zinc batteries was estimated at 3 to 5 years. The separator membranes are crosslinked polyethylene film containing grafted poly (potassium acrylate)(PKA), the latter being the hydrophilic agent which promotes electrolyte ion transport. The lifetime was estimated by monitoring the rate of loss of PKA from the separators, caused by chemical attack of the electrolyte, and relating this loss rate to a known relationship between battery performance and PKA concentration in the separators.

Cuddihy, E. F.↗

Viscoelastic behavior of polymers undergoing crosslinking reactions.

Previously a method was developed for predicting the viscoelastic response of polymers undergoing scission reactions. These results are now extended to include crosslinking reactions. As for scission, at any given time the character of the network chains is determined by the instantaneous crosslink density. For scission all chains were assumed to carry the same stress; for crosslinking, however, the stress is distributed between the 'new' and 'old' chains. Equations for calculating the creep response of a system which experiences a step increase in crosslink density are derived.

Moacanin, J.↗

Ionene membrane battery separator

Ionic transport characteristics of ionenes, insoluble membranes from soluble polyelectrolyte compositions, are studied for possible application in a battery separator. Effectiveness of the thin film of separator membrane essentially determines battery lifetime.

Moacanin, J.↗