This Inter-American Materials Collaboration research project is carried out by research groups led by Pulickel Ajayan at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and Mauricio Terrones at the Instituto Potosino de Investigacion Cientifica y Tecnologica (IPICYT) in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The research addresses the large scale synthesis of N-doped carbon nanotubes for the fabrication of novel polymer composites and related low-dimensional materials. The aim of the synergistic experimental research effort performed by RPI and IPICYT is primarily focused on the bulk production of CNx nanotubes using self-assembly (pyrolytic) processes involving Fe, C and N precursors. State-of-the-art structural characterization, and the determination of the mechanical, thermal and conducting properties of CNx nanotubes is carried out in collaboration. In addition, the researchers produce and characterize various types of conducting polymers, thermoplastics, shock absorber polymers etc., all containing CNx nanotubes.
The project actively targets the exchange of students and researchers between both institutions, and motivates young generations through collaborative education initiatives and through the organization of various workshops in Troy, NY, and San Luis Potosi. This award is supported by the Division of Materials Research, the Office of International Science and Engineering, and the Office of Multidisciplinary Activities in the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences.
