------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ *A ½ price registration fee is available to attendees living within a 30 mile radius of the conference site. Attendees taking advantage of this option will not receive tickets to the luncheons or reception beverage tickets. This option is available to members, nonmembers and poster presenters. This option is NOT available for student attendees. If you are eligible for this option, you must complete the registration form and fax it to +1 919 549 8933 or email to nicholk@aatcc.org along with payment information. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This program being conducted by AATCC’s Materials Interest Group will focus on advances in multi-functional materials with sessions concentrating on nanotechnologies, medical, protection, and performance wear. The program chaired by Philip J. Brown with Clemson University will be held September 12-14 at the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, S.C. The National Textile Center (NTC) Forum will be held in conjunction with the program. The NTC Forum will include a poster session and student paper competition.
Presentations include: Fiber-based Scaffolds for Tissue Regeneration – Ken Webb, Clemson University Regenerative medicine is an interdisciplinary field integrating degradable biomaterials, cell transplantation, and drug delivery towards achieving functional restoration of tissues and organs compromised by traumatic injury or disease. Structure and function are intimately related in all biological systems. Specifically, many tissues such as tendon, ligament, muscle, and the nervous system are composed of highly organized, aligned structures of parallel fibers. Structural disruption resulting from injury or pathology creates an important barrier to effective regeneration. Our laboratory is currently investigating the hypothesis that capillary channel polymer (CCP) fibers can be used to create scaffolds that promote physiologically appropriate cellular organization leading to accelerated and improved recovery of function. In the context of anterior cruciate ligament regeneration, we have shown that CCP fibers promote significantly increased organization of fibroblasts and their secreted extracellular matrix relative to round fibers of comparable denier or perimeter. Variation of fiber/channel dimensions influenced fibroblast organization, while application of cyclic strain increased construct mechanical properties. For spinal cord regeneration applications, we have developed novel fiber/hydrogel composites that achieve integration of structural microarchitecture and controlled release of bioactive macromolecules. These studies demonstrate that the CCP fiber structure offers a number of beneficial features as structural templates for the regeneration of highly organized tissues. Nonwoven Poly(ε-caprolactone) Electrospun Conduits for Guided Regeneration of Vascular Elastic Matrix – Anand Ramamurthi, Cleveland Clinic Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) cause 15,000 deaths in the United States annually. Since the current surgical treatments for AAAs can cause thrombosis or leak, a tissue engineered vascular graft is being pursued as a promising alternative. Tissue engineering attempts combines several components (e.g. biodegradable scaffolds, cells, and bioactive factors) to generate a final tissue with long-term in vivo stability. However, one current challenge in vascular tissue engineering is enhancing the inherently limited generation of elastin and its crosslinking into elastic fibers, which are necessary to regulate vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) and provide the elastomeric properties necessary for the physiological function of native aortae. The objectives of this project are to increase the production of elastin with TGF-β1 and hyaluronan oligomers (HA-o) (i.e. elastogenic factors) and to direct the orientation of elastic fibers using aligned electrospun meshes and contact guidance. We electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) meshes with highly-aligned and randomly oriented fibers, diameters 0.70±0.5 and 1.3±0.8 μm, respectively. Randomly-oriented scaffolds tested in tension (PBS, 37°C, n=4) exhibited properties appropriate for a vascular graft (e.g. Young’s modulus=10.4 MPa). Rat aortic SMCs were seeded on scaffolds and two-dimensional spin-coated PCL films at 1.0×104 cells/cm2. At day 6, cells on scaffolds appeared more spindle-shaped than those on the films (aspect ratio of 5.52±2.8 vs. 2.50±1.1) and were more highly aligned on the aligned scaffold, suggestion that the deposited matrix will also be more highly aligned. The SMCs increased in density over 21 days (n=6) and continued to stained for phenotypic markers (e.g. calponin, SM22α, and smooth muscle actin). Crosslinked elastin synthesis/cell was higher on scaffolds than on the films (p<0.001). Exogenous TGF-β and HA-o have been to added to culture media to improve elastin deposition, that study is ongoing. The elastogenic factors have also been covalently tethered to spincoated films throught a carbodiimide chemistry, as confirmed by x-ray photoemission spectroscopy. Our studies provide evidence that aligned electrospun scaffolds and elastogenic factors direct cell orientation and improve the generation of elastic matrix. R&D Initiatives: Nuclear Radiation-Blocking, Anti-Chemical, Biological Protection Systems - Ronald F. DeMeo, Radiation Shield Technologies The threat of nuclear radiation is driving global demand for more advanced personal-protection technologies, and national security experts worldwide are searching for solutions. These experts recognize that a terrorist attack involving a nuclear or radiologic weapon would be catastrophic: for example, a 10KT weapon detonated in a large urban area, such as midtown New York City, could kill up to a half-million inhabitants. A radiological weapon in the same location could cause up to a trillion dollars in short- to long-term economic damage. Current nuclear, biological, chemical (NBC) suits and personal protection equipment (PPE) available today for first responders offer limited shielding against these and other threats and have no capability to protect against ionizing radiation and heat. Current PPE’s only offer low-energy alpha protection without X-ray, Gamma or high Beta protection. They allow for heat stress to occur, seriously inhibiting operations among first responders. Research and development efforts have focused on identifying a solution. Until Demron was introduced, there has not been one multi-hazard solution capable of addressing every type of threat. Demron is the first armor to offer universal protection and the highest level of shielding with a flexible, durable, easy-to-use fabric. Its unique nanotechnology is currently used in a complete line of personal-protection gear, including full-body NBC suits, tactical anti-nuclear vests, high-energy nuclear suppression blankets and medical X-ray vests and aprons. It is also effective in radiation-proof tents, linings for aircraft and spacecraft and covers for radiation-sensitive equipment. The Demron material is composed of a broad spectrum of nano- and micron-scale constituents that work independently, as well as in unison, to provide uniform attenuation from radiation and chemical and biochemical protection. Every physical property of the Demron material, from radiation attenuation and abrasion resistance to flexibility, is engineered on the molecular level using novel molecular formulations and nano- and micron-scale additives to produce a unique, high-quality product. Demron is the only fabric that is certified for meeting all Class 2 requirements of NFPA 1994/2007 Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to CBRN Terrorism Incidents. It protects against Alpha, Beta, and Gamma (low energy) nuclear emissions and is resistant to tears and chemicals. It’s more lightweight, flexible and impermeable to chemical- and biological-warfare agents than other fabrics, so it may be used in jumpsuits for emergency workers and first responders to disaster scenes. The thin, compliant Demron fabric has proved its effectiveness against X-rays and nuclear emissions in tests at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the Neely Nuclear Research Center at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the department of radiology at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. Experts with the U.S. Department of Defense proved its effectiveness in protecting against common chemical-warfare agents such as mustard gas, VX nerve gas and sarin. As the threat of nuclear, chemical and biological agents continues to increase, government and security officials recognize the need for better protection. A growing number are turning to Demron as the solution. Polymer-Magnetic Nanoparticle Complexes and Constructs: Platform for Imaging, Detection, and Therapy – Olin Thompson Mefford Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Composites: Opportunities and Challenges - Kishor Gupta, Georgia Institute of Technology Polymer/carbon nanotube composite films and fibers have been processed using polymers such as polyacrylonitrile(PAN), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly (methyl methacrylate) (PVA), poly(ether ether ketone) (PEK) and biopolymers such as DNA, silk, and cellulose. Single wall carbon nanotubes, multi wall carbon nanotubes, as well as vapor grown carbon nano fibers have been used in these studies. Composite films have been processed that contain up to 90% carbon nanotubes and continuous fibers have been processed that contain up to 30 wt% carbon nanotubes. Carbon fibers from PAN/CNT precursor fibers have been processed with significantly improved mechanical properties when compared to the carbon fibers processed from only PAN precursor. Carbon nanotubes act as a template for polymer orientation and nucleating agent for polymer crystallization. Films and fibers with electrical conductivity as high as 100,000 s/m have been processed, and these materials are also expected to be good candidates for thermal conductivity applications.
Mesoporous PAN/CNT electrodes have been processed for supercapacitor electrodes with specific capacitance exceeding 400 F/g. Recent results will be presented in the broader context of challenges and opportunities in the field. Self-powered Nanosystem: From Nanogenerators to Piezotronics – Yaguang Wei, Georgia Institute of Technology Developing wireless nanodevices and nanosystems is of critical importance for sensing, medical science, environmental/infrastructure monitoring, defense technology and even personal electronics. It is highly desirable for wireless devices to be self-powered without using battery. This is a new initiative in today’s energy research for mico/nano-systems in searching for sustainable self-sufficient power sources [1]. It is essential to explore innovative nanotechnologies for converting mechanical energy, vibration energy, and hydraulic energy into electric energy that will be used to power nanodevices. We have invented an innovative approach for converting nano-scale mechanical energy into electric energy by piezoelectric zinc oxide nanowire arrays [2]. The operation mechanism of the nanogenerator relies on the piezoelectric potential created by an external strain; a dynamic straining of the nanowire results in a transient flow of the electrons in the external load due to the driving force of the piezopotential. We have developed the nanogenerator from fundamental science, to engineering integration and to technological scale-up [3-6]. As today, a gentle straining can output 1.2 V from an integrated nanogenerator [6], using which a self-powered nanosensor has been demonstrated [1]. This is a key step for developing a totally nanowire-based nanosystem [6]. Alternatively, by substituting the gate voltage in a field effect transistor (FET) with the piezopotential creating by an external strain, we have fabricated a series of devices that rely on a coupling between semiconductor and piezoelectric properties and are controlled/tuned by externally applied force/pressure, such as diode, strain sensor and strain-gated logic unites, which are a new field called piezotronics [7]. A three way coupling among piezoelectricity, semiconductor and photonic excitation has demonstrated the piezo-phototronic effect [8]. [1] Z.L. Wang “Self-powering nanotech”, Scientific American, 298 (2008) 82-87; Z.L. Wang “Towards self-powered nanosystems: from nanogenerators to nanopiezotronics” (feature article), Advanced Functional Materials, 18 (2008) 3553-3567. Surface Modification of Fibrous Materials - Bogdan Zdyrko, Clemson University Effects of Cellulose Nanocrystal Addition to Alginate Fiber Nanocomposites – Christopher Kitchens, Clemson University Alginate fibers have found many applications such as the preparation of dressings to treat exuding wounds, drug delivery, enzyme immobilization, etc.; however their use is limited due to their poor mechanical properties. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were isolated from cotton and introduced into calcium alginate fibers with the goal of improving their strength, and modulus. The isolated CNCs are elongated nanoparticles of crystalline cellulose with an average length of 130nm with a standard deviation (s) of 63nm, an average width of 20.4nm (s = 7.8nm), and an average height of 6.8nm (s = 3.3nm). The CNCs were mixed with an aqueous sodium alginate dope solution, and wet spun into a CaCl2 bath to form fibers. It was found that if the apparent jet stretch (ratio of the fiber draw velocity to extrusion velocity) is kept constant, addition of the nanocrystals reduces the tensile strength and modulus of the material; however a small concentration of CNCs in the dope solution increases the toughness and enables an increase in the fiber spinning apparent jet stretch ratio by nearly two fold at up to 25% CNCs load; the maximum ratio of 4.6 is observed at 25%wt CNC loading, as compared to a maximum of 2.4 for the native alginate. Mechanical testing showed a 38% increase in tenacity and a 123% increase in tensile modulus with 10%wt CNCs loading and an apparent jet stretch of 4.2. The data suggest that alignment of the nanocrystals in the composites is a key factor influencing the mechanical properties. CNCs have potential to become a biocompatible, renewable and cost effective solution to reinforce alginate fibers. Fascinating Carbon Nanotube Morphologies: Function Follow Shape – Apparao Rao, Clemson University It is said that nanostructured materials promise a bright future for novel devices and technologies, and this talk provides strong evidence for this promise. Specifically, we have developed synthesis processes to tune the morphology of carbon nanotubes (linear, branched or coiled) to harness novel functionalities associated with each of these morphologies. For example, branched Y-shaped nanotubes exhibit transistor-like properties. Our studies show that electron flow through them can be controlled to create "on" and "off" states, the basis of elec¬tronic circuitry. Likewise, coiled nanotubes serve as tiny shock absorbing coils with extremely resilient mechanical properties. After formation in our CVD growth chamber, the coiled nanotubes can be peeled off the substrates and placed on other surfaces to form cushioning coatings. We envision numerous applications for these kinds of shaped nanotubes in electronics, body armors, car bumpers, and even as cushioning elements in shoe soles. Photonics of Wing Scales: Butterflies and Beetles - Mohan Srinivasarao, Georgia Institute of Technology Flexible Textile Electrodes for Electroluminescence - Paul Calvert, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth Using Nanofibers to Create Innovative Multifunctional Textiles – Melinda Carnahan, SNS Nano Fiber Technology, LLC Improvised Explosive Devices Flash Fire/Protection- System Level Test – James Reuther - Energetic Systems & Security Technology Battelle, National Security Global Business Micro-Electronic Sensor Technology Integrated into Clothing and Protective Equipment - Jeffrey D. Carbeck - MC10 Inc. U.S. Army Current and Future Ballistic Materials Needs - James Zheng, Program Executive Office U.S. Army Nonwovens for Hygiene and Oil Spill Applications - Seshadri Ramkumar, Texas Tech University Testing and Selecting Gloves for Cut Protection - Jeffrey Moreland, Clemson University Novel Nanofibers for Chemical and Biological Protective Clothing – Marian McCord, North Carolina State University Electrospun nanofibers have great potential in chemical and biological protective clothing applications due to their large surface specific area and pore volume. Their structures can be easily controlled to provide a wide array of protective capabilities. Atmospheric plasma is a facile and effective method to modify textile surface structures. By combining these two processes, we fabricated various novel electrospun nanofibers that can be used in protective clothing. Particulate barrier efficiency of over 99% was obtained by depositing nanofibers on nylon/cotton fabric without sacrificing air permeability. First, zinc oxide nanoparticles were incorporated into Nylon 6 nanofibers and the composite nanofibers showed capability in detoxifying a blister agent simulant. Next, nylon 6 nanofibers with CD-IBA functionalized surfaces were prepared by plasma grafting, and showed high detoxification rates when exposed to a nerve agent simulant. Finally, silver/PAN antibacterial hybrid nanofibers were prepared by plasma treatment and showed high inhibition to E.coli. Moreover, results of a peel test and a Gelbo Flex test indicate that adhesion mechanical properties of electrospun nanofibers deposited on fabric substrate can be effectively improved by atmospheric plasma treatment. The research indicated that the technique and product is very promising in chemical and biological protective clothing applications. Acknowledgement: Work supported by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) contract HDTRAI-08-1-0031.
Pyrohands and Pyrohead: Recent Advances in Full Scale Fire Testing Systems – Roger Barker, North Carolina State University Nanofibrous Membranes for Enhanced Human Protection - S. Kay Obendorf, Cornell University Chemical and biological protection provided by textiles can reduce occupational exposure for individuals involved with the chemical industry, military, and emergency response. As well, these functional textiles can be used to enhance the air quality in the built environment, in particular hospital settings. An approach to achieving a balance between chemical protection and comfort is to limit pore size. Microporous membranes that allow vapor penetration but prevent liquid penetration alleviate the thermal discomfort often associated with traditional barrier materials while maintaining a high degree of chemical protection. Electrospinning is an effective and promising technique for the production of fibers with diameters from 40 to 5000 nm. Webs and laminates of these nanofibers have small pore size between fibers allowing enhanced protection while maintaining high water vapor transport. A fine layer of electrospun fibers increased aerosol protection without significant change in the moisture vapor transport. Nanofibers have great potential for application in filtration, membrane, and protective clothing applications due to the large surface area and the small interfiber pores. Antimicrobial nanofibrous membranes were developed using N-halamine and saponin as additives in the electrospinning solutions. Photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles in electrospun fibers provided self decontaminating functionality for protection clothing and reduced the volatile organic compounds (VOC) air offering the potential of improved indoor air quality in the built environment. New Perspectives on Clothing for Health and Well-Being - Kate Carroll, North Carolina State University This presentation will give a brief summary of projects being pursued at the College of Textiles in the area of clothing for health and well-being. It will also outline the new program, Textile Products for People with Disabilities, which engages students in new product development with individuals and organizations in the community. Evaluation of Piezoelectric Fibers for Energy Harvesting Fabrics – Francois Guillot, Georgia Institute of Technology Energy harvesting fabrics offer the possibility of powering small electronic devices by converting mechanical energy into usable electrical energy. For example, they could take the form of wind-harvesting banners or be integrated into stretchable clothing. In this work, the electromechanical performance of single piezoelectric ceramic fibers is evaluated and their potential for integration into energy harvesting fabrics is assessed. Electoactive Polymer for Textile and Other Applications - Tushar Ghosh, North Carolina State University Program updates as available will be posted to this website.
Overnight accommodations are available at the Hyatt Regency Greenville, 220 N Main St., Greenville, SC 29601 USA , +1 864 235 1234 or +1 800 233 1234. Reservations should be made directly with the hotel and attendance at the AATCC symposium should be specified to receive the group rate of US$99 single/double. A first night’s room and tax deposit are due with each registration. Reservations must be made by August 28, 2010 to ensure room availability. Hotel shall compley with the Global Privacy Policy for Guests available at http://privacy.hyatt.com. REGISTER* EARLY AND SAVE! Individuals registering on or before August 27 pay US$749 (US$499 for individual and corporate AATCC members) and will include luncheons, breaks and a copy of all available papers. After August 27 the registration fee increases to US$549 for AATCC members and US$799 for nonmembers. The registration fee for NTC poster presenters is US$425. The AATCC student registration fee is US$175. Refunds will be honored if cancellations are received on or before September 3, 2010. A US$75 cancellation fee will be charged. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ *A ½ price registration fee is available to attendees living within a 30 mile radius of the conference site. Attendees taking advantage of this option will not receive tickets to the luncheons or reception beverage tickets. This option is available to members, nonmembers and poster presenters. This option is NOT available for student attendees. If you are eligible for this option, you must complete the registration form and fax it to +1 919 549 8933 or email to nicholk@aatcc.org along with payment information. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Click here to register online. Click here to complete the registration form and submit by fax or email.
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