This is a CRISP (Combined Research - Industrial Sabbatical Program) proposal for a joint project between the UCSB and AT&T Bell Laboratories. The main objective is to control the molecular structure and orientation of liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) during injection molding in order to obtain precise manufactured parts and increased electrical conductivity. The research approach combines molecular theory modeling to predict the behavior of LCP melts, experimental studies of their rheological and optical microstructural properties, and various precision molding processes. The selected model thermotropic LCP is well suited for rheological and structural studies, and will open a more fundamental approach to characterize the LCPs as compared to previous studies. The project will use resources at the UCSB and AT&T Bell Laboratories. According to the CRISP requirements, the PI will submit a report to NSF after the completion of the industrial visit of Prof. Pearson in order to evaluate a possible redirection of research. Applications include high accuracy interconnection parts used in the fiber optics and electronics industry, with an immediate use in the construction of the AT&T nationwide data network. The selected LCP is the base for development of an "enabling" technology in high precision molding, with optoelectronic devices as a first application area.
