Research Interests
Polymer structure-property relationships using infrared,
Raman, NMR spectroscopy and spectroscopic imaging
techniques.
Overview of Research
Our goal is to relate the type and number of chemical
structures and their chain and spatial distributions to the
ultimate performance properties of complex multicomponent
polymer systems. For this effort, we are utilizing a variety
of modern spectroscopic techniques including Fourier
Transform Infrared, Microspectroscopic imaging, high
resolution solution C-13 NMR, high resolution solid-state
NMR, and NMR imaging. We are combining methods of
determining the average composition with techniques for
spatially resolving the structural domains of the
micro-samples to establish the nature of the heterogeneity
in the final component utilized in engineering practice. We
are developing new methods of evaluating the nature of the
heterogeneity and its basis in the manufacturing or
fabrication process. We are examining such phase separated
systems as polymer/liquid crystals, crosslinked elastomer/filler
systems, and fiber based composites. Changes in structure
induced by environmental effects such as temperature, time,
and environmental exposure are also being examined.
Current Activity
We have recently turned our attention to the study of
controlled drug release devices using FTIR imaging. Using
FTIR imaging it is possible to simultaneously follow the
physical-chemical changes in the drug, the polymer and the
solvent In this manner we can determine the mechanism of the
drug release process and measure the parameters describing
the process.
Recent Publications
“Fourier Transform Infrared Imaging of Stereoregular
Poly(methyl methacrylate) Dissolution,” J.P. Bobiak and J.L.
Koenig, Applied Spectroscopy, 58(10), 1141-46
(2004).
“Visualization Strategies for Infrared Spectroscopic
Images,” C. Coutts-Lendon and J.L. Koenig, Applied
Spectroscopy, 59(6), 717-23 (2005).
“A Review of Rubber Oxidation,” G.Y. Li and J.L. Koenig,
Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 78(3), 355-90
(2005).
“Investigation of the Aqueous Dissolution of Semicrystalline
Poly(ethylene oxide) using Infrared Chemical Imaging: The
effects of Molecular Weight and Crystallinity,” Applied
Spectroscopy, 59(8), 976-85 (2005).
“Regions of Interest in FTIR Imaging Applications: Diffusion
of Nicotine into Ethylene-co-vinyl Acetate Films,” J.P.
Bobiak and J.L. Koenig, Journal of Controlled Release,
106(3), 329-38 (2005).
Awards
2005 Inducted into the Plastics Hall of
Fame 2003 Haslar Award, Pittsburgh Spectroscopy Society
2000 Fellow, Division of Plastic Materials: Science and
Engineering, ACS
2000 Elected into the National Academy of Engineering
2000 Goodyear Medal, Rubber Division, American Chemical
Society
2000 Distinguished Alumni Award, Yankton College
1998 Case Alumni Association Meritorious Service
Award/Excellence - Teaching Research
1997 ACS Award in Applied Polymer Science
1996 Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE) International
Education Award
1995 Honorary Member of the Society of Applied Spectroscopy
1994 George Stafford Whitby Award, ACS, Rubber Division
1993 Bomem-Michelson Award
1992 ACS Alexander Doolittle Award
1992 Gold Medal, Society of Applied Spectroscopy, New York
Section
1991 Distinguished Service Award, Cleveland Technical
Societies Council
1991 International Research Award, Society of Plastics
Engineers
|
