This proposal formally establishes a multi-university Center for Particulate and Surfactant Systems as part of NSF's Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) program. The University of Florida (the lead institution) and Columbia University will maintain research sites to collaborate on research. The proposed center's goal is to develop a knowledge base on the interactions between particulate systems and their relationship with the structure of different surfactants for enhanced performance in the pharmaceutical, chemical, microelectronic, and other nano-bio applications. The research thrust areas identified in the proposal include synthesis, characterization, processing and applications.
The proposed activity involves a number of researchers from different disciplines from both universities. Much of the research will be carried out in collaboration with a number of industrial researchers. The proposed I/UCRC research program will contribute to a timely development and commercialization of targeted research of major societal significance. Work force development through education and advanced training of students will be a resource to industry and academe in this critical field of science and engineering and surfactant systems. In addition, recruitment of women and under-represented groups will be emphasized.
Particulate and surfactant systems are vital to virtually every major industry including pharmaceuticals, detergents, cosmetics, liquid crystals, micro-electronics, advanced ceramics, petroleum and fuels, minerals, biotechnology, photography, and paints and coatings. The interplay between particles and surfactants strongly influence the performance of the products in various industries. New tools such as Atomic Force Microscopy have been used by CPaSS researchers to gain deeper understanding of the forces that govern particle behavior in suspensions and at surfaces. This knowledgebase has helped in developing formulations for reducing infections in homes and hospitals, treating plant diseases, and reducing corrosion in pipelines. At the same time new knowledge about particles and greener reagents has aided industry researchers in developing sustainable processes and products. The Center goals are achieved in close collaboration with industry to ensure market driven expedited development of commercial products. Additionally, Center researchers have developed processes to produce narrowly sized powders for applications in advanced materials manufacturing and healthcare. Antimicrobial coatings have been developed that are capable of working in areas lit with household lights. Mathematical and simulation models by Center researchers are empowering industry to develop more energy efficient processes and design more effective consumer products. Overall, scientific and technological contributions of CPaSS faculty and student researchers during Phase I of the Center operations have the potential benefits to society including development of more efficient processes leading to more effective and less costly consumer products; tools and protocols to screen greenness of reagents and particles together – the platform for many sustainable industrial, household and healthcare products. CPaSS has graduated master and doctoral students, trained post-doctoral candidates and provided research experience with industry focus to undergraduate students during Phase I of its operations. Recruitment of women and under-represented minority students in Phase I of CPaSS has been strongly assisted by faculty commitment to educate and train a diverse workforce, and availability of additional funds from NSF (REU, other research awards). CPaSS is committed to continue to educate and train a diverse workforce in the years to come.
