Welcome to the Golden Gate Polymer Forum

The GGPF is a non-profit educational and scientific organization
dedicated to the study of polymeric materials and devices.

Our participants are individuals working in both industry and academia in the San Francisco Bay Area.  We sponsor monthly polymer forums, occasional symposiums or short-courses, and an email distribution list.  All interested in the study of polymers are welcome to attend.

Events

Exploring Plastic Crystallization Pathways: Insights from Fast Scanning Calorimetry and Rheometry - X. Zhang

Webinar

Exploring Plastic Crystallization Pathways: Insights from Fast Scanning Calorimetry and Rheometry

Xiaoshi Zhang, Ph.D.

Research Faculty Member

Penn State Behrend

Wednesday, December 13,  Webinar at 6:00 PM Pacific time

Abstract

In plastic manufacturing, understanding the interplay between processing conditions and the resulting properties of plastics is crucial. In this presentation, I will delve into the intricate relationship between processing conditions and the resultant properties of polymers, with a particular focus on nylons, PEEK, and their composites. Initially, I will discuss our recent research that utilizes Fast Scanning Calorimetry along with other technologies to unravel the complexities of crystallization pathways. We observe that through crystallization cooling pathways in a wide range from 10 K/s to 2000 K/s, kinetics and morphology can exhibit completely different behaviors, even under identical crystallization temperatures. Following this, I will examine the impact of shear on crystallization. Our exploration includes how rotational rheometry, employing Couette flow instead of traditional Poiseuille flow, broadens our understanding of shear-induced kinetics and morphological transitions. This is complemented by techniques such as synchrotron X-ray and X-ray CT, through which we will discuss intriguing observations in PEEK glass fiber and carbon fiber composites. Throughout the presentation, I will demonstrate how these methodologies significantly enhance our understanding of plastic processing, particularly in the context of injection molding. The insights gained are pivotal for the strategic manipulation of key processing parameters, such as injection velocity, pack pressure, and mold temperature. This knowledge is essential for optimizing the final properties of the manufactured parts.

Speaker Background

Dr. Xiaoshi Zhang is a research faculty member at Penn State Behrend, where he dedicates his efforts to studying polymer crystallization under processing-relevant conditions, advanced plastic polymer characterization, and the sustainability of plastics. His work at Penn State is marked by notable industry collaborations, securing funding from organizations including INVISTA, SKF, Shell, and the American Chemical Council. Prior to joining Penn State Behrend in 2020, Dr. Zhang gained valuable industry experience at DSM, a leader in engineering plastics. His contributions to polymer science have been recognized through his published work, which has been featured on the covers of journals like Macromolecules and Macromolecular Rapid Communications, and has received acknowledgment from the DOE Office of Science. Dr. Zhang earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Florida State University, studying under Professor Rufina Alamo.

DATE: Wednesday, December 13

Registration deadline: Tuesday, December 12, 1:00 PM.

Registration may close earlier than the nominal deadline if capacity is reached.

This event will be FREE OF CHARGE, but we still require you to fill out the registration form. In particular, we need to have your name and email address for you to be able to participate. Please provide affiliation also if you can, as it helps us judge audience interests.

If you can spare a small amount, GGPF requests an optional donation of $5 (or more) but this is not required to register and attend the webinar.

To register for free, use the pull-down toggle to select "All registrants ($0.00)" choice.

To donate, use the pull down toggle to select "GGPF donation ($5.00)". This will direct you to a secure link where you can use PayPal or any credit or debit card. For larger donations, use the "Donate to GGPF" link on the front page GGPF.org

Webinar Timing: 6:00 PM.

(Zoom meeting room will open earlier)

Attendees who complete the registration form will receive information by email for how to participate. It is requested that people join the meeting invitation well before 6:30 to avoid delays.

Registrants will receive the information needed to join the webinar within a day of the event in an email from “events@ggpf.org” To be certain of seeing the note, please add events@ggpf.org to your safe mail senders list, and/or look in your spam, updates, or other mailbox locations in addition to your primary In Box.

Please register on the web page.

You should receive email confirmation of your registration; if not, please contact us again.

Do not reply to email from events@ggpf.org

For questions or other assistance, contact:

Bruce Prime

rbruceprime@gmail.com

Attendees will be added to the GGPF email announcements list unless they request otherwise.

Price: $5.00

Date: December 13, 2023

Available Spaces: 938

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