Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering

314 Kent Hale Smith Building (7202)
Phone: 216.368.4172; Fax: 216.368.4202
Gary Wnek, Professor and Chair
gary.wnek@case.edu

Macromolecular science and engineering is the study of the synthesis, structure, processing, and properties of polymers. These giant molecules are the basis of synthetic materials including plastics, fibers, rubber, films, paints, membranes, and adhesives. Research is constantly expanding these applications through the development of new high performance polymers, e.g. for engineering composites, electronic, optical, and biomedical uses. In addition, most biological systems are composed of macromolecules—proteins (e.g. silk, wool, tendon), carbohydrates (e.g. cellulose) and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) are polymers and are studied by the same methods that are applied to synthetic polymers.

Production of polymers and their components is central to the chemical industry, and statistics show that over 75 percent of all chemists and chemical engineers in industry are involved with some aspect of polymers. Despite this, formal education in this area is offered by only a few universities in this country, resulting in a continued strong demand for our graduates upon completion of their BSE, MS, or PhD degrees.

Mission

To educate students who will excel and lead in the development of polymeric materials and the application of structure-property relationships. The department seeks to prepare students for either professional employment or advanced education, primarily in this or related science or engineering disciplines, but also in professional schools of business, law or medicine. Undergraduate students are offered opportunities for significant research experience, capitalizing on the strength of our graduate program.

Research

The research activities of the department span the entire scope of macromolecular science and polymer technology.

Synthesis

New types of macromolecules are being made in the department’s synthesis laboratories. The emphasis is on creating polymers with novel functional properties such as photoconductivity, selective permeation, and biocompatibility, and in producing new materials which behave like classical polymers without being linked together by covalent bonds.

Physical Characterization

This is the broad area of polymer analysis, which seeks to relate the structure of the polymer at the molecular level to the bulk properties that determine its actual or potential applications. This includes characterization of polymers by infrared, Raman, and NMR and mass spectroscopy, thermal and rheological analysis, determination of structure and morphology by x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy, permeability and free volume, and investigation of molecular weights and conformation by light scattering.

Mechanical Behavior and Analysis

Polymeric materials are known for their unusual mechanical capabilities, usually exploited as components of structural systems. Analysis includes the study of viscoelastic behavior, yielding and fracture phenomena and a variety of novel irreversible deformation processes.

Processing

A major concern of industry is the efficient and large scale production of polymer materials for commercial applications. Research in this area is focusing on reactive processing, multi-layer processing and polymer mixing, i.e., compounding and blends. The integration of sensors and processing equipment, and methods for examining changes in structure and composition during processing steps are growing areas of inquiry. Both laboratory and simulation research are brought to bear on these critical issues.

Materials Development and Design

Often, newly conceived products require the development of polymeric materials with certain specific properties or design characteristics. Materials can be tailor-made by designing synthesis and processing conditions to yield the best performance under specified conditions. Examples might be the design of photoluminescent and semi-conducting polymers for use in optoelectronic devices, polymers that are stable at high temperatures for fire-retardant construction materials, high temperature polymer electrolytes for use in advanced fuel cells, low density thermal insulating polymer composite materials, advanced polymeric optical devices, and biocompatible polymers for use in prosthetic implants, reconstructive medicine and drug-delivery vehicles.

Biopolymers

Living systems are composed primarily of macromolecules, and research is in progress on several projects of medical relevance. The department has a long-standing interest in the hierarchical structure and properties of the components of connective tissues (e.g., skin, cartilage, and bone). The department is also engaged in the development of new biocompatible polymers for applications in human health.

Faculty

Gary Wnek, PhD
(University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
The Joseph F. Toot, Jr. Professor and Chair
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/wnek.htm
Polymeric biomaterials for drug delivery and regenerative medicine; nano- and micro-fiber fabrication; bio-mimicking approaches for polymer flammability mitigation; polymer packaging systems design; polyelectrolyte gels and elastomers; physiologically-mimicking macromolecular constructs with attention to primitive motile and irritable systems

Eric Baer, DEng
(Johns Hopkins University)
Director, Centered for Layered Polymeric Systems (CLiPS) and Herbert Henry Dow Professor of Science and Engineering
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/baer.htm
Multilayered and ultrathin polymer films and devices. Irreversible microdeformation mechanisms; pressure effects on morphology and mechanical properties; relationships between hierarchical structure and mechanical function; mechanical properties of soft connective tissue; polymer composites and blends; polymerization and crystallization on crystalline surfaces; viscoelastic properties of polymer melts; damage and fracture analysis of polymers and their composites. Structure-property relationships in biological systems

Michael Hore, PhD
(University of Pennsylvania)
Associate Professor
Polymer physics; neutron scattering; polymer nanocomposites; grafted polymers and brushes; theory and modeling; self-consistent field theory; structure-property relationships; reconfigurable materials.

Hatsuo Ishida, PhD
(Case Western Reserve University)
Professor
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/ishida.htm
Processing of polymers and composite materials; structural analysis of surfaces and interfaces; molecular spectroscopy of synthetic polymers

João Maia, PhD
(University of Wales Aberystwyth, U.K.)
Associate Professor
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/maia.html
Polymer rheology: extensional rheology and rheometry; micro- and nano-rheology; bio-rheology: food rheology and processing; rheology for macromolecular technology: development and optimization of polymer blends and composites; viscoelasticity of micro- and nano-layered polymer films; on- and in-line monitoring of extrusion-based processes; micro-processing; environmental rheology and processing

Ica Manas-Zloczower, DSc
(Israel Institute of Technology)
Professor
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/manas_zloczower.htm
Structure and micromechanics of fine particle clusters; interfacial engineering strategies for advanced materials processing; dispersive mixing mechanisms and modeling; design and mixing optimization studies for polymer processing equipment through flow simulations

Svetlana Morozova
(University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
Assistant Professor
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=-4yshbMAAAAJ&hl=en
Polymer dynamics

Valentin Rodionov, PhD
(Scripps Res. Institute)
Assistant Professor
Organic polymer chemistry; synthesis of novel macromolecular structures and architectures; catalysis

Abhinendra Singh, Ph.D.
(University of Twente, The Netherlands)
Assistant Professor
https://voices.uchicago.edu/abhinendra/
Simulations; Modelling; Rheology; Shear Thickening & Jamming; Colloids; Hydrodynamics; Network Theory; Machine Learning; Polymers

Lei Zhu, PhD
(University of Akron)
Professor
http://polymers.case.edu/people/faculty/zhu.htm
Nanoscale structure and morphology of crystalline/liquid crystalline polymers and block copolymers; ferroelectric and dielectric polymers for electric energy storage; polymer/inorganic hybrid nanocomposites; biodegradable polymers for diagnostic and drug delivery

Secondary Faculty

James M. Anderson, PhD
(Oregon State University, M.D.)
Professor of Macromolecular Science, Pathology, and Biomedical Engineering
http://www.cwru.edu/med/pathology/faculty/anderson.html
Biocompatibility, inflammation, foreign body reaction to medical devices, prostheses, and biomaterials

Donald Feke, PhD
(Princeton University)
Professor of Chemical Engineering and Macromolecular Science
http://www.case.edu/cse/eche/faculty_Feke.html
Fine-particle processing, colloidal phenomena, dispersive mixing, and acoustic separation methods

Roger French, PhD
(Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
F. Alex Nason Professor of Materials Science
http://dmseg5.cwru.edu/People/faculty.php?id=rxf131
Optical materials and elements, optical properties and electronic structure of materials, and electrodynamic van der Waals-London dispersion interactions

John Protasiewicz, PhD
(Cornell University)
Professor of Chemistry
http://www.case.edu/artsci/chem/faculty/protasiewicz/
Inorganic, organic, main group, materials, polymer, catalysis, organometallic chemistry, and X-ray crystallography

Charles Rosenblatt, PhD
(Harvard University)
Professor of Physics
http://www.phys.cwru.edu/faculty/index.php?rosenblatt
Experimental condensed matter physics and liquid crystal physics

Kenneth Singer, PhD
(University of Pennsylvania)
Professor of Physics
http://www.phys.cwru.edu/faculty/index.php?singer
Modern optics and condensed matter experiment and nonlinear optics

Philip Taylor, PhD
(Cambridge University, England)
Perkins Professor of Physics
Phase transitions and equations of state for crystalline polymers; piezoelectricity and pyroelectricity

Horst von Recum, PhD
(University of Utah, Salt Lake City)
Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering
http://bme.case.edu/FacultyStaff/PrimaryFaculty/vonRecum/
Novel platforms for the delivery of molecules and cells and the use of novel stimuli-responsive polymers for use in gene and drug delivery

Adjunct Faculty

Thomas Chapin, PhD
(University of Connecticut)
Vice President, UL Laboratories
Polymer Flammability

Lashanda Korley, PhD
(Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Distinguished Professor, Materials Science & Engineering and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware
Hierarchical peptide polymer hybrids; new fiber manufacturing strategies for functional material development; responsive composites; interplay of covalent and non-covalent interactions

Isao Noda, PhD
(Columbia University)
Affiliated Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware
Polymer science, biodegradable polymers, analytical spectroscopy

Jon Pokorski, PhD
(Northwestern University)
Associate Professor, Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego
Biomaterials for delivery of therapeutic proteins; protein-polymer conjugates; drug-delivery; biopolymer catalysts; self-assembling peptides; affinity-based delivery of therapeutics; layered polymeric delivery systems

Stuart Rowan, PhD
(University of Glasgow)
Professor, The Institute for Molecular Professor for Molecular Engineering, Innovation and Enterprise, University of Chicago
Supramolecular chemistry; synthesis of metallosupramolecular and stimuli-responsive polymers; isolation and utilization of cellulose nanocrystals in biomimetic and porous systems; reversible covalent chemistry

Christoph Weder, DrScNat
(ETH Zurich Switzerland)
Professor of Polymer Chemistry and Materials and Director, Adolphe Merkle Institute of the University of Fribourg, Switzerland
http://www.am-institute.ch/en/people/Christoph-Weder
Design, synthesis and investigation of structure-property relationships of novel functional polymers: polymers with unusual optic and/or electronic properties; (semi)conducting conjugated polymers; stimuli-responsive polymers; biomimetic materials, polymer nanocomposites, supramolecular chemistry

CWRU/Brazil Dual PhD Degree Adjunct Professors

Rosario Elida Suman Bretas, PhD
(Federal University of Sao Carlos)
Professor
Department of Materials Engineering

Veronica Maria de Araujo Calado, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor

Sebastiao Vicente Canevarolo Junior, PhD
(Federal University of Sao Carlos)
Professor
Center for Exact and Technology, Dept of Materials Engineering

Leonardo Bresciani Canto, PhD
(Federal University of Sao Carlos)
Professor
Department of Materials Engineering

Marcio da Silveira Carvalho, PhD
(Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Osvaldo de Lazaro Casagrande Junior, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Department of Organic Chemistry

Jose Roberto Moraes d'Almeida, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Chemical Engineering

Griselda Barrera Galland, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Aurora Perez Gramatges, PhD
(Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Chemistry

Elizabete Fernandes Lucas, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Institute of Macromolecules

Raquel Santos Mauler, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Department of Organic Chemistry

Paulo de Souza Mendes, PhD
(Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Monica Feijo Naccache, PhD
(Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Sidnei Paciornik, PhD
(Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Materials Engineering

Luiz Antonio Pessan, PhD
(Federal University of Sao Carlos)
Professor
Department of Materials Engineering

Cesar Liberato Petzhold, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Joao Henrique Zimnoc Dos Santos, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Paulo Henrique Schneider, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Henri Stephan Schrekker, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Argimiro Resende Secchi, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
COPPE-Chemical Engineering Program

Bluma Guenther Soares, PhD
(Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
Professor
Institute of Chemistry

Marcio Nele De Souza, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Chemical Engineering

Frederico Wanderley Tavares, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
School of Chemistry and Program of Chemical Engineering of COPPE

Roney Leon Thompson, PhD
(Federal University of Rio de Janeiro)
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Emeritus Faculty

John Blackwell, PhD
(University of Leeds, England)
Leonard Case Jr. Professor
http://polymers.case.edu/people
Determination of the solid state structure and morphology of polymers. X-ray analysis of the structure of thermotropic copolyesters, copolyimides, polyurethanes, polysaccharides; supramolecular assemblies, fluoropolymers; molecular modeling of semi-crystalline and liquid crystalline polymers; rheological properties of polysaccharides and glycoproteins

Alexander M. Jamieson, DPhil
(Oxford University, England)
Professor
Quasielastic laser light scattering; relaxation and transport of macromolecules in solution and bulk; structure-function relationships of biological macromolecules

David A. Schiraldi, Ph.D.
(University of Oregon)
Peter A. Asseff, Professor of Organic Chemistry Emeritus
Composites, including Aerogel composites, structure-property relationships, transport phenomena and packaging materials, condensation polymers, bio-based polymer synthesis, polymer flammability and sustainable FR agents, polymer blends and complex polymer systems.

Facilities

The Kent Hale Smith Science and Engineering Building houses the Department of Macromolecular Science. The building was built in 1993, and specifically designed to meet the specific needs of polymer research. The facility consists of five floors, plus a basement. The laboratories for chemical synthesis are located principally on the top floor, the molecular and materials characterization laboratories on the middle floors, and the major engineering equipment on the ground floor, while the NMR, MALDI-TOF, and TA-Instruments. Thermal Characterization instrumentation are located in the basement. Modern, computer-interfaced classrooms are installed on the ground floor. Additional instrumentation available includes Small and Wide-Angle X-ray diffractometers; scanning electron microscopy; a complete range of molecular spectroscopic equipment including FTIR, laser Raman, and high resolution solution and solid-state NMR (including imaging), as well as Raman and FTIR microscopes; and dynamic light scattering spectroscopy. There are also facilities for polymer characterization (molecular weight distribution), optical microscopy, solution and bulk rheology, scanning calorimetry, and for testing and evaluating the mechanical properties of materials. A newly built-out processing lab provides the complete suite of Thermo-Fisher batch, single- and twin-screw mixing and extrusion equipment, as well as that manufacturer’s state of the art rheometers. The C. Richard Newpher polymer processing laboratory includes a high temperature Rheometrics RMS-800 dynamic mechanical spectrometer, a Bomem DA-3 FTIR with FT-Raman capabilities, a compression molding machine, a Brabender plasticorder, a high speed Instron testing machine, and a vibrating sample magnetometer. The Charles E. Reed ’34 Laboratory is concerned with the mechanical analysis of polymeric materials. The major testing is done by Instron Universal testing instruments including an Instron model 1123 with numerous accessories such as an environmental chamber for high or low temperature experiments. Additional mechanical testing of fibers, films and injection-molded (Boy model 22-S) are provided by MTS universal testers which are used for both research and undergraduate teaching laboratory classes. The NSF Center for Layered Polymeric Systems (CLiPS) has its central facility within the department, with three cutting-edge multilayer extrusion systems as its centerpiece. CLiPS also operates a Bruckner KARO IV biaxial stretching unit, which allows controlled biaxial stretching of polymer films, and an Atomic Force Microscope which probes the morphological and mechanical properties of materials at the nanoscale. The Molecular Modeling Center provides access to various software packages for the rheological and molecular modeling of polymers.

Macromolecular and Polymer Science (EMAC)

EMAC 125. First Year Research on Polymers. 1 Unit.

First year research in polymer chemistry, engineering, and physics. Students will be placed in active research groups and will participate in real research projects under the supervision of graduate students and faculty mentors.

EMAC 270. Introduction to Polymer Science and Engineering. 3 Units.

Science and engineering of large molecules. Correlation of molecular structure and properties of polymers in solution and in bulk. Control of significant structural variables in polymer synthesis. Analysis of physical methods for characterization of molecular weight, morphology, rheology, and mechanical behavior. Prereq: ENGR 145.

EMAC 276. Polymer Properties and Design. 3 Units.

The course reviews chemical and physical structures of a wide range of applications for synthetic and natural polymers, and addresses "Which polymer do we choose for a specific application and why?" We examine the polymer properties, the way that these depend on the chemical and physical structures, and reviews how they are processed. We aim to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different chemical options and why the actual polymers that are used commercially are the best available in terms of properties, processibility and cost. The requirements include two written assignments and one oral presentation. Prereq: ENGR 145 and EMAC 270.

EMAC 303. Structure of Biological Materials. 3 Units.

Structure of proteins, nucleic acids, connective tissue and bone, from molecular to microscopic levels. An introduction to bioengineering biological materials and biomimetic materials, and an understanding of how different instruments may be used for imaging, identification and characterization of biological materials. Recommended preparation: EMAC 270. Offered as: EBME 303 and EMAC 303. Prereq: EBME 201, EBME 202, and EBME 306.

EMAC 325. Undergraduate Research in Polymer Science. 1 - 3 Units.

Undergraduate laboratory research in polymer chemistry/physics/engineering. Students will undertake an independent research project, working under the mentoring of both a graduate student and a faculty member. A mid-term written progress report is required. A written report and oral presentation will be made at the end of the semester. Can be taken for 1-3 credits per semester, up to a total of 6 credit hours. Students are expected to spend approximately 5 hours/week in the laboratory per credit registered each semester. Recommended preparation: Sophomore/Junior standing and consent of instructor.

EMAC 351. Physical Chemistry for Engineering. 3 Units.

Principles of physical chemistry and their application to systems involving physical and chemical transformations. The nature of physical chemistry, properties of gases, overview of the laws of thermodynamics, thermochemistry, solutions, phases and chemical equilibrium, kinetics of chemical reaction, solutions of electrolytes and introduction to quantum mechanics, atomic structure and molecular statistics. Prereq: ENGR 145.

EMAC 352. Polymer Physics and Engineering. 3 Units.

Single chain statistics and thermodynamics of dilute polymer solutions (single chain statistics, Flory-Kringbaum theory, vapor pressure and osmotic pressure, light, small angle X-Ray, and small-angle neutron scattering), solid state properties of polymers (polymer viscoelasticity (time-temperature superposition; rubber thermodynamics and statistics), glasses and related mechanical properties (fracture mechanism), crystals and liquid crystals; structure property relationship, polymer blends, block copolymers and composites, transport phenomena (conversation of mass, momentum and energy, differential forms, integral forms, momentum transport, laminar and turbulent flow, Navier-Stokes equation, mass transport, diffusion, Fick's law) and transport phenomena of polymer solutions (intrinsic viscosity, sedimentation and diffusion, dynamic light scattering, polyelectrolytes and block copolymers in solution, size exclusion chromatography). Prereq: EMAC 351

EMAC 353. Foundations of Scattering. 3 Units.

Introduction to the fundamentals of using scattering techniques to characterize the structure and dynamics of soft matter and its interfaces, with an emphasis on X-ray and neutron techniques. Topics covered include a mechanistic description of scattering processes, diffraction, small-angle scattering, reflectometry, and quasi-elastic scattering applied to polymers, proteins, gels/networks, nanoparticles, and other soft materials. Offered as EMAC 353 and EMAC 453. Prereq: EMAC 351 and EMAC 352.

EMAC 355. Polymer Analysis Laboratory. 3 Units.

Experimental techniques in polymer synthesis and characterization. Synthesis by a variety of polymerization mechanisms. Quantitative investigation of polymer structure by spectroscopy, diffraction and microscopy. Molecular weight determination. Physical properties. Counts as a Disciplinary Communication course.

EMAC 370. Polymer Chemistry. 3 Units.

The fundamentals of organic chemistry of polymer synthesis, suitable for laboratory and industrial polymer production. Prereq: EMAC 270 and (CHEM 224 or CHEM 324).

EMAC 372. Polymer Processing and Testing Laboratory. 3 Units.

Basic techniques for the rheological characterization of thermoplastic and thermoset resins; "hands-on" experience with the equipment used in polymer processing methods such as extrusion, injection molding, compression molding; techniques for mechanical characterization and basic principles of statistical quality control. Prereq: EMAC 377.

EMAC 373. Numerical and Computational Methods in Soft Matter Systems. 3 Units.

This course is open to senior undergraduate and graduate students. Working knowledge of a programming language is essential. Numerical and computational methods, advanced data analysis (numerical and experimental data sets), using python, accessing HPC cluster, simulations vs numerical analysis, Monte-Carlo methods, molecular dynamics, suspension dynamics. Offered as EMAC 373 and EMAC 473. Prereq: ENGR 130 and EMAC 351 and EMAC 352 and Junior standing or above.

EMAC 375. Fundamentals of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics and Polymer Rheology. 3 Units.

This course will involve the study of Rheology from the perspectives of rheological property measurement, phenomenological and molecular models, and applicability to polymer processing. In particular, students will be introduced to:1) General concepts of Rheology and Newtonian Fluid Mechanics, 2) Standard flows and material functions; 3) The role of Rheology as a structural characterization tool, with an emphasis on polymeric systems; 4) Experimental methods in Rheology with quantitative descriptions of associated flows and data analyses; 5) Viscoelasticity and Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics, including the application of models, both phenomenological and molecular, to the prediction of rheological behavior and extraction of model parameters from real data sets; and 6) The relevance of rheological behavior of different systems to practical processing schemes, particularly with respect to plastics manufacturing. Offered as EMAC 375 and EMAC 475. Prereq: ENGR 225 or EMAC 404.

EMAC 376. Polymer Engineering. 3 Units.

Mechanical properties of polymer materials as related to polymer structure and composition. Visco-elastic behavior, yielding and fracture behavior including irreversible deformation processes. Recommended preparation: ENGR 200. Offered as EMAC 376 and EMAC 476. Prereq: EMAC 276.

EMAC 377. Polymer Processing. 3 Units.

Application of the principles of fluid mechanics, heat transfer and mass transfer to problems in polymer processing; elementary steps in polymer processing (handling of particulate solids, melting, pressurization and pumping, mixing); principles and procedures for extrusion, injection molding, reaction injection molding, secondary shaping. Prereq: EMAC 352 or ENGR 225.

EMAC 378. Polymer Engineer Design Product. 3 Units.

Uses material taught in previous and concurrent courses in an integrated fashion to solve polymer product design problems. Practicality, external requirements, economics, thermal/mechanical properties, processing and fabrication issues, decision making with uncertainty, and proposal and report preparation are all stressed. Several small exercises and one comprehensive process design project will be carried out by class members. Offered as EMAC 378 and EMAC 478. Counts as a SAGES Senior Capstone course.

EMAC 396. Special Topics. 1 - 18 Units.

(Credit as arranged.)

EMAC 398. Polymer Science and Engineering Project I. 1 - 3 Units.

(Senior project). Research under the guidance of faculty. Requirements include periodic reporting of progress, plus a final oral presentation and written report. Repeatable up to 3 credit hours. When taken for 3 credits it may be spread over two successive semesters. Counts as a SAGES Senior Capstone course. Prereq: Senior Standing.

EMAC 399. Polymer Science and Engineering Project II. 1 - 9 Units.

(Senior project.) Research under the guidance of staff, culminating in thesis. Recommended preparation: Majors only and senior standing.

EMAC 400T. Graduate Teaching I. 0 Unit.

This course will engage the Ph.D. students in teaching experiences that will include non-contact (such as preparation and grading of homeworks and tests) and direct contact (leading recitations and monitoring laboratory works, lectures and office hours) activities. The teaching experience will be conducted under the supervision of the faculty. All Ph.D. students will be expected to perform direct contact teaching during the course sequence. The proposed teaching experiences for EMAC Ph.D. students are outlined below in association with undergraduate classes. The individual assignments will depend on the specialization of the students. The activities include grading, recitation, lab supervision and guest lecturing. Recommended preparation: Ph.D. student in Macromolecular Science.

EMAC 401. Polymer Foundation Course I: Organic Chemistry. 3 Units.

The class is an introduction to the synthesis and organic chemistry of macromolecules. The course introduces the most important polymerization reactions, focusing on their reaction mechanisms and kinetic aspects. Topics include free radical and ionic chain polymerization, condensation (step-growth) polymerization, ring-opening, insertion and controlled addition polymerization. There is no limit on the number of students for the class as a whole.

EMAC 402. Polymer Foundation Course II: Physical Chemistry. 3 Units.

This class is an introduction to the physical chemistry of polymers in solution. Topics include: polymer statistics: (microstructure, chain configuration, and chain dimensions), thermodynamics and transport properties of polymers in solution, methods for molecular weight determination, physical chemistry of water-soluble polymers, and characterization of polymer microstructure (IR and NMR). There is no limit on the number of students for the class as a whole.

EMAC 403. Polymer Foundation Course III: Physics. 3 Units.

This class is an introduction to the physics of polymers in the bulk amorphous and crystalline states. Topics include: structural and morphological analysis using X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, characterization of thermal transitions, viscoelastic behavior and rubber elasticity, and dynamic mechanical analysis. There is no limit on the number of students for the class as a whole.

EMAC 404. Polymer Foundation Course IV: Engineering. 3 Units.

This class is an introduction to the engineering and technology of polymeric materials. Topics include: additives, blends and composites, natural polymers and fivers, thermoplastics, elastomers, and thermosets, polymer degradation and stability, polymers in the environment, polymer rheology and polymer processing, and polymers for advanced technologies (membrane science, biomedical engineering, applications in electronics, photonic polymers). There is no limit on the number of students for the class as a whole.

EMAC 405. Polymer Characterization Laboratory. 3 Units.

Laboratory experience through synthesis and characterization of polymers. Synthesis via addition and condensation polymerization. Characterization methods include size exclusion chromatography, infrared and NMR spectroscopy. Solid samples are characterized by x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, thermal analysis, and physical properties. Fluid samples are characterized by melt rheology. Prereq: EMAC 401, EMAC 402, EMAC 403 and EMAC 404.

EMAC 408. Scientific Literature, Bibliometrics, and Ethics in Research and Publication. 3 Units.

This class aims to assist students in navigating scientific literature and bibliographic databases while gaining a deeper understanding of the scientific enterprise. Although science is often considered to be an objective endeavor with self-correcting mechanisms, these safeguards sometimes fail. We will explore the technical aspects of modern science publishing, the academic journal ecosystem, funding frameworks, and peer review. In addition, we will examine some of the more uncomfortable aspects of the scientific enterprise, such as questionable research practices, research misconduct, predatory publishing, and politicization of science. Offered as CHEM 408 and EMAC 408.

EMAC 413. Polymers Plus Green Chemistry and Engineering. 2 Units.

This course focuses on green chemistry and engineering, particularly as it relates to polymers. Specific topics to be covered in this course will include green chemistry, catalysis, alternative solvents, green processing, renewable materials, and life cycle analysis. Case studies will be utilized to connect lecture topics to real-world examples. Prereq: EMAC 401 and EMAC 404.

EMAC 415. Polymers Plus Structure and Morphology. 2 Units.

This special topic focuses on polymer structure and morphology and their applications. Topics include solid-state physics of various polymeric materials, ranging from crystalline polymers to liquid crystalline polymers, and block copolymers. First, symmetry operation, space groups, reciprocal spaces are introduced. Examples of the crystalline structures of industrially important polymers and typical polymer crystalline morphology such as lamellar and spherulitic crystals are discussed. Defects in crystalline polymer is also an important issue that determines their physical properties. Second, typical phase structure and transitions of liquid crystals and liquid crystalline polymers are introduced, including both thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals. Finally, nanostructure and morphology of block copolymers are discussed. Prereq: EMAC 402 and EMAC 403.

EMAC 425. Polymer Plus Energy. 2 Units.

Energy research has become the focus of the twenty-first century. This course is a special topic on polymers in the energy field and related applications. We primarily focus on polymers for solar cells, fuel cells, batteries, double layer electrochemical capacitors, dielectric capacitors, and wind energy. For solar cells, we will introduce conducting polymers and basic types of polymer solar cells. For fuel cells, we will introduce both proton- and hydroxide-exchange fuel cells. Fundamental issues of ion transport, water management, and fuel cell longevity will be introduced. For supercapacitors, we will introduce porous carbon structures and charge storage mechanism. For dielectric capacitors, we will introduce fundamental concepts in electrostatics, different types of polarization, and loss mechanism. For wind energy, we will introduce polymer composites for wind blades and polymer coatings. This course will combine lectures and contemporary literature reviews/essays.

EMAC 437. Advanced Polymeric Films. 2 Units.

This course is focused on processing structure and property relationships with particular emphasis on a variety of layered film systems. Two classes will be offered per week, emphasizing a large variety of layered film systems for advanced applications. These film systems exhibit unique properties that allow applications in 1) selective barrier films for food and packaging and flexible photocell protection; 2) optical and photonic characteristics for security-enhanced devices and systems; 3) transport phenomena and separation processes for battery separators and particle separation; and, 4) multilayer films for enhancement of mechanical and adhesive properties. Prereq: EMAC 270 and EMAC 276 or Requisites Not Met permission.

EMAC 450. The Business of Polymers. 2 Units.

This course will link polymer technology to business and management issues that need to be considered for successful technology commercialization. Topics include project management, finance, opportunity assessment, the voice of the customer, and protection of intellectual property. Case studies from both large and small companies will be used to illustrate key concepts. Recommended preparation: EMAC 270, EMAC 276.

EMAC 453. Foundations of Scattering. 3 Units.

EMAC 461. Chemistry of Fire Safe Polymers and Composites. 3 Units.

Chemistry of Fire Safe Polymers and Composites starts with the introduction of characterization techniques used for fire safe materials and combustion phenomena research. General discussion on how reduced flammability of polymers and composites are obtained, for example by additives and preparing intrinsically thermally stable chemical structure and some examples of smart approaches, will be discussed. It also discusses the synthetic methods of preparing high temperature stable polymers in addition to the raw materials used to prepare those materials. Special emphasis will be placed on the thermal stability data obtained by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and combustion calorimetry for those fire safe materials. Mechanistic aspects of the flammability of polymers will be explained with special emphasis on the molar contribution of chemical functionality to the heat release capacity. Theoretical derivation of thermokinetic parameters will be explained. In addition, a common sense build-up will be attempted by providing actual numbers associated with those thermokinetic parameters. Upon completion of background formation, a more advanced materials, composites and nanocomposites, will be discussed using the results recently reported. Preliminary attempts to explain flame retardation by nanocomposite structures will also be discussed. Offered as EMAC 461 and EMAE 461.

EMAC 463. Fire Dynamics. 3 Units.

This course introduces compartment fires and burning behavior of materials. Topics include: buoyant driven flow, fire plume, ceiling jet, vent flow, flashover and smoke movement as well as steady burning of liquids and solids; ignition, extinction and flame spread over solids. Recommended Preparation: Elementary knowledge in thermo-fluids is required. Offered as EMAE 463 and EMAC 463.

EMAC 464. Fire Protection Engineering. 3 Units.

This course introduces essentials of fire protection in industry and houses. Topics include: hazard identification (release of flammable gases and their dispersion), fire and explosion hazards, prevention and risk mitigation, fire detection systems, mechanisms of fire extinguishment, evaluation of fire extinguishing agents and systems. Offered as EMAC 464 and EMAE 464.

EMAC 471. Polymers in Medicine. 3 Units.

This course covers the important fundamentals and applications of polymers in medicine, and consists of three major components: (i) the blood and soft-tissue reactions to polymer implants; (ii) the structure, characterization and modification of biomedical polymers; and (iii) the application of polymers in a broad range of cardiovascular and extravascular devices. The chemical and physical characteristics of biomedical polymers and the properties required to meet the needs of the intended biological function will be presented. Clinical evaluation, including recent advances and current problems associated with different polymer implants. Recommended preparation: EBME 306 or equivalent. Offered as EBME 406 and EMAC 471.

EMAC 473. Numerical and Computational Methods in Soft Matter Systems. 3 Units.

EMAC 475. Fundamentals of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics and Polymer Rheology. 3 Units.

EMAC 476. Polymer Engineering. 3 Units.

EMAC 477. Elementary Steps in Polymer Processing. 3 Units.

This course is an application of principles of fluid mechanics and heat transfer to problems in polymer processing. In the first part of the course, basic principles of transport phenomena will be reviewed. In the second part, the elementary steps in polymer processing will be described and analyzed with application to a single screw extruder.

EMAC 478. Polymer Engineer Design Product. 3 Units.

EMAC 491. Polymers Plus Literature Review. 1 Unit.

This course involves weekly presentations of the current polymer literature. It involves at least one presentation by the enrolled student and participation in all literature reviews (at least 10/semester). The course will focus on presentation skills (both oral and written), scientific interpretation, and development of peer-review skills. This course can be taken for a total of 3 credits over three different semesters.

EMAC 500T. Graduate Teaching II. 0 Unit.

This course will engage the Ph.D. students in teaching experiences that will include non-contact (such as preparation and grading of homework and tests) and direct contact (leading recitations and monitoring laboratory works, lectures and office hours) activities. The teaching experience will be conducted under the supervision of the faculty. All Ph.D. students will be expected to perform direct contact teaching during the course sequence. The proposed teaching experiences for EMAC Ph.D. students are outlined below in association with graduate classes. The individual assignments will depend on the specialization of the students. The activities include grading, recitation, lab supervision and guest lecturing. Recommended preparation: Ph.D. student in Macromolecular Science.

EMAC 600T. Graduate Teaching III. 0 Unit.

This course will engage the Ph.D. students in teaching experiences that will include non-contact and direct contact activities. The teaching experience will be conducted under the supervision of the faculty. The proposed teaching experiences for EMAC Ph.D. student in this course involve instruction in the operation of major instrumentation and equipment used in the daily research activities. The individual assignments will depend on the specialization of the students. Recommended preparation: Ph.D. student in Macromolecular Science.

EMAC 601. Independent Study. 1 - 18 Units.

(Credit as arranged.)

EMAC 651. Thesis M.S.. 1 - 18 Units.

(Credit as arranged.)

EMAC 673. Selected Topics in Polymer Engineering. 2 - 3 Units.

Timely issues in polymer engineering are presented at the advanced graduate level. Content varies, but may include: mechanisms of irreversible deformation: failure, fatigue and fracture of polymers and their composites; processing structure-property relationships; and hierarchical design of polymeric systems. Recommended preparation: EMAC 376 or EMAC 476.

EMAC 677. Colloquium in Macromolecular Science and Engineering. 0 - 1 Units.

Lectures by invited speakers on subjects of current interest in polymer science and engineering. This course can be taken for 3 credits over three different semesters.

EMAC 690. Special Topics in Macromolecular Science. 1 - 18 Units.

EMAC 695. Project M.S.. 1 - 9 Units.

Research course taken by Plan B M.S. students. Prereq: Enrolled in the EMAC Plan B Program.

EMAC 701. Dissertation Ph.D.. 1 - 9 Units.

(Credit as arranged.) Prereq: Predoctoral research consent or advanced to Ph.D. candidacy milestone.

2024-25 General Bulletin

Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Mission

Research

Synthesis

Physical Characterization

Mechanical Behavior and Analysis

Processing

Materials Development and Design

Biopolymers

Faculty

Secondary Faculty

Adjunct Faculty

CWRU/Brazil Dual PhD Degree Adjunct Professors

Emeritus Faculty

Programs

Dual Degrees

Facilities

Macromolecular and Polymer Science (EMAC)

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