Center of Excellence in Nanobiomaterials Derived from Biorenewable and Waste Resources
Grant # (NSF-HRD 1137681)
扣扣传媒University, Tuskegee, AL 36088

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Summary

Center of Excellence in Nanobiomaterials Derived from Biorenewable and Waste Resources was established at 扣扣传媒University (TU) with the funding from NSF for a period of five years starting October 2011. Collaborators from within the USA include Auburn University (AU), Cornell University (CU), the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), and several industry and national laboratories. Currently, only AU and CU are involved as prime collaborators during the no-cost extension (reporting) period. International collaboration is built upon the existing relationships with researchers from Brazil and India. In addition, during this reporting period, there were two CREST supplemental awards for collaborative research work with University of Wisconsin and Iowa State University.

The research focus areas of the center include: (a) synthesis of plant based nanofibers through electrospinning and forcespinning鈩� methods; (b) production of bacterial cellulose fibers from soy waste products; (c) synthesis of nanoparticles from biodegradable sources such as egg shells and their use as nano-fillers in advanced composites; (d) synthesis of biopolymers; (e) development and characterization of advanced green nanocomposites using these materials with natural fibers; and (f) product design, prototyping and commercial feasibility studies. These efforts are carried out through three subprojects; 1) Synthesis and characterization of nanobiomaterials, 2) Synthesis and characterization of biopolymers and nanobiocomposites, and 3) Processing, performance evaluation and technology transition of green nanobiocomposites to products. The materials developed provide an alternative to the current generation of high performance 鈥榓dvanced鈥� composites materials which use thermoset polymers and man-made fibers like glass, carbon and Kevlar庐. Further, these polymers are derived from petroleum, an expensive and scarce commodity, and composites are not biodegradable.

The intellectual merits of this grant lie in the fact that the development of biodegradable nanofibers, nanoparticles, nanobiopolymers and their characterization, processing and characterization of advanced green composites will provide significant knowledge that can be used to develop new applications in automotive and building industries. Work is being carried out on the four campuses in close collaborations. At 扣扣传媒University, efforts are focused studies on PVS bionanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibers, synthesis and characterization of epoxide soybean oil, jute bio-nanocomposites reinforced with grafted halloysite nanotubes added PHBV polymer, thermal, durability and biodegradation properties of halloysite nanotube reinforced poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) Films, eggshell-silver nanoparticles tailored co-polyester polymer blend film with antimicrobial properties, coconut shell sourced carbon Tailored biofilm from PLA and PBAT blend, influence of cellulose on the mechanical and thermal stability of ABS plastic composites, a facile benchtop reactor design using dendrimer-templating technology for the fabrication of PEI-coated Cu nanoparticles on the gram-scale, Forcespun PLA fibers enhanced using graphene nanoplatelets, montmorillonite nanoclay and lignin. In these efforts funding was leveraged from other NSF funded grants.

At Auburn University (AU), research is focused on synthesis and characterization of biopolymers and nanobiocomposites. Specifically, work was focused on Triglycerides and Phenolic Compounds as Precursors of Bio-based Thermosetting Epoxy Resins. Cornell University (CU) work is focused on development of high performance green nanocomposites using aligned bacterial cellulose and soy protein.

Broader impacts

There has been significant research achievement, which has been disseminated to larger technical community through publications in journals and presentations at conferences. Science and technology open-house activities are held annually by 扣扣传媒University on bringing middle and high school 扣扣传媒 together to interact with their peers from colleges across the state of Alabama. All the 扣扣传媒 were provided opportunities to present their work in international conferences and/or student paper competitions (both oral and poster). Several 扣扣传媒 obtained MS and PhD degrees. Many of the 扣扣传媒 completing MS degrees are joining PhD programs elsewhere. Students who obtained PhD degrees have got jobs either in industry or in academia. High school 扣扣传媒 participated in a program called SciTrek where they spend a week and got trained by graduate 扣扣传媒. This is an ongoing activity, details of which will be reported next year. TU faculty and 扣扣传媒 were involved with NSF funded REU program in mentoring undergraduate 扣扣传媒. Dr. Curry, other faculty members and graduate 扣扣传媒 at 扣扣传媒were involved in RET program. Results of research findings have been communicated to broader research community through publications in book chapters, journal articles, articles in conference proceedings as well as oral and poster presentations by the 扣扣传媒.

Key Personnel

• Dr. Mahesh Hosur, Principal Investigator 鈥� Professor and Head, Materials Science and Engineering
• Dr. Michael Curry Associate Professor, Chemistry, TU

• Dr. Shaik Jeelani, VP for Research and Dean of Graduate Studies

• Dr. Vijay Rangari, Co-PI, Professor, Materials Science and Engineering

• Dr. Shaik Zainuddin, Associate Professor, Materials Science and Engineering

• Dr. Alfred Tcherbi-Narteh, Assistant Professor, Materials Science and Engineering

• Ms. Felicia Jenkins, Program Manager, Materials Science and Engineering

• Ms. Felecia Moss-Grant, Associate Director, Grantsmanship and Compliance
• Ms. Danette Hall, Director, Sponsored Programs

Participants

• Dr. Mahesh Hosur, PI, Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, 扣扣传媒University (TU), PI: NSF-EPSCoR-Alabama Center for Nanostructured Materials, ONR, ERDC-CERL, Co-PI: NSF-PREM, HBCU-RISE.
• Dr. Maria L. Auad, Professor, Polymer and Fiber Engineering, Auburn University (AU).
• Dr. Maria Charlton, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering, TU.
• Dr. Michael Curry, Associate Professor, Chemistry, TU.
• Dr. Mohammad K. Hossain, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering, TU.
• Dr. Esperidiana Moura, Instituto de Pesquisas Energ茅ticas e Nucleares - IPEN-CNEN/SP, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
• Dr. Anil Netravali, Professor, Fiber Science and Apparel Design, Cornell University (CU).
• Dr. Haibin Ning, Assistant Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
• Rohit Kumar Rana, Scientist, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad, India.
• Dr. Vijaya Rangari, Co-PI, Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, TU, Co-PI: NSF-HBCU-RISE, PREM, EPSCoR.
• Dr. Pradosh Ray, Professor and Head, Mechanical Engineering, TU.
• Dr. Melissa Reeves, Associate Professor, Chemistry, TU.
• Dr. Uday Vaidya, UT/ORNL Governor鈥檚 Chair in Advanced Composites Manufacturing Professor, Mechanical, Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering (MABE) Chief Technology Officer, Institute for Advanced Composites and Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI)
• Dr. Selvum (Brian) Pillay, Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, UAB.
• Dr. Alfred Tcherbi-Narteh, Assistant Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, TU.
• Dr. Sabu Thomas, Professor, School of Chemical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Kerala, India.
• Dr. Shaik Zainuddin, Associate Professor, Materials Science and Engineering, TU.
• Ms. Felecia Grant, Associate Director, Grantsmanship and Compliance, TU.
• Ms. Danette Hall, Director, Sponsored Programs, TU

Collaboration

Collaboration with National Labs and University Centers

扣扣传媒University and its partners have developed collaborative arrangements with various academic intuitions, national labs and industry for support of research and educational programs of the proposed Center.

Partner Institutions

• Auburn University (PI: Dr. Maria Aaud)
• Cornell University (PI: Dr. Anil Netravali)
• The University of Alabama at Birmingham (PI: Dr. Uday Vaidya)听

Industry

• Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company (Contact Person: Dr. Suraj Rawal)
• Metters Inc. (Contact Person: Dr. Greg Gaddy)
• Raytheon Missile Systems (Contact Person: Dr. Renee鈥� Rogers)
• Composites Innovation Centre, Manitoba, Canada (Contact Person听: Dr. Sean McKay)

National Laboratories

• United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, South Atlantic Area, Clemson, SC. (Contact Person: Dr. John Foulk)
• Oak Ridge National Laboratory (contact persons: Drs. John Nemeth and Jim Roberto)
• Naval Research Laboratory (Contact Person: Dr. Duane Simonson)

International Exposure

• We have developed a collaborative relationship with several international universities and research labs. We have selected the following institutions where our 扣扣传媒 will conduct research and sample culture in those countries.
• Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India (Dr. Rohit Kumar Rana)
• Mahatma Gandhi University,听 Kerala, India ( Dr. Sabu Thomas)
• Instituto de Pesquisas Energ茅ticas e Nucleares - IPEN-CNEN/SP, Sao Paulo, Brazil (Dra. Esperidina Moura)

Outcomes

Book Chapters

• Rahman, M. M., Netravali, A. N., 鈥淕reen Resins from Plant Sources and Strengthening Mechanisms, Advanced Green Composites,鈥� A. N. Netravali (editor), Scrivener Publisher and John Wiley, Accepted, Feb. 2017.
• Comparative Study of the Effects of Cellulose Nanowiskers and Microcrystalline Cellulose Addition as Reinforcement in Flexible Films based on Biopolymer Blends, D.A. Paiva, R.R. Oliveira, M.W. Da Silva, M.L. Auad, V.K. Rangari,E.A.B. Moura,听 Characterization of Minerals, Metals and Materials, Edited by Ikhmayies, Li, Carpeneter, et all,听 TMS, The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society, 409-416, 2016. (Contribution 35%)

Publications

Journal Publications

• Rahman, M. M., Netravali, A. N., 鈥淗igh-performance 鈥楪reen鈥� Nanocomposites using Aligned Bacterial Cellulose and Soy Protein,鈥� Composites Science & Technology, In Press, April 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2017.04.027
• Rahman, M. M., Netravali, A. N., 鈥淥riented Bacterial Cellulose-Soy Protein based Fully 鈥楪reen鈥� Nanocomposites,鈥� Composites Science & Technology, October 2016, Vol. 136, pp. 85-93. DOI: org/10.1016/j.compscitech.2016.10.003
• Rahman, M. M., Netravali, A. N., 鈥淎ligned Bacterial Cellulose Arrays as 鈥楪reen鈥� Nanofibers for Composite Materials,鈥� ACS Macro Letters, October 2016, Vol. 5, pp. 1070-1074. DOI: org/10.1021/acsmacrolett.6b00621
• Crews, K., Huntley, C., Cooley, D., and Curry, M. 鈥淐ellulose Influence on ABS Plastic Composites鈥� International Journal of Polymer Science 2016, 1-10, 2016). Refereed.
• The Effect of Ethanol on Hydroxyl and Carbonyl Groups in Biopolyol Produced by Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Loblolly Pine: ³¹P-NMR and ¹⁹F-NMR Analysis, Y. Celikbag, B.K. Via, S. Adhikari, G. Buschle-Diller, M.L. Auad, accepted for publication in Bioresources Technology, 2016.
• Sequential Graft-interpenetrating Polymer Networks based on Polyurethane and Acrylic/ester Copolymers, R. Ballestero; B.M. Sundaram, H.V. Tippur, M.L. Auad, Express Polymer Letters,听Volume 10 听听Issue: 3 听听Pages: 204-215 听听Published: MAR 2016.
• S. Zainuddin, A. Fahim, S. Shoieb, F. Syed, M.V. Hosur, D. Li, and S. Jeelani, 鈥淢orphological and mechanical behavior of chemically treated jute鈥怭HBV bio鈥恘anocomposites reinforced with silane grafted halloysite nanotubes鈥�,听Journal of Applied Polymer Science,听133(39).
• Shaik Zainuddin, Abdullah Fahim, Shaik Shoieb, Mahesh Hosur, Dawen Li, Mackenzie Matthews, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥淧roperties of Polyhydroxy Butyrate Polyvalerate Biopolymeric Nanocomposites Reinforced with Natural Halloysite Nanotubes鈥�, Journal of Material Science and Technology Research, Volume 3, pp 7-16; doi:10.15377/2410-4701.2016.03.01.2
• Tiimob, Boniface;听Mwinyelle, Gregory; Abdela, Woubit; Samuel, Temesgen; Jeelani, Shaik; Rangari, Vijaya, 鈥淣ano-engineered eggshell-silver tailored co-polyester polymer blend film with antimicrobial properties" Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry,听 65, 9, 1967-1976, 2017 (DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.7b00133).
• Md. Nuruddin, Mahesh Hosur, Raju Gupta, Gaurav Hosur, Alfred Tcherbi-Narteh, and Shaik Jeelani, 鈥淐ellulose Nanofibers-Graphene Nanoplatelets Hybrids Nanofillers as High-Performance Multifunctional Reinforcements in Epoxy Composites,鈥� accepted for publication in Polymer and Polymer Composites, July 19, 2016.
• Biswas, Manik C., Shaik Jeelani, and Vijaya Rangari. "Influence of biobased silica/carbon hybrid nanoparticles on thermal and mechanical properties of biodegradable polymer films." Composites Communications 4 (2017): 43-53.

Conference publications

• Vertonica Powell-Rose, Mahesh Hosur, Shaik Jeelani, Influence of Nanoclay on Curing, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Bio-Based Epoxy Resin System, CAMX, The Composites and Advanced materials Expo, September 26-29, 2016, Anaheim, CA.
• Meadows, S., Young, C., Abugri, D., and Jeelani, S., 2016. Studies on the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. In American Society for Composites (Conference Proceedings), September 19-22, 2016.
• Inez Hua and Michael L. Curry, Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) Site: Sustainable听听 Electronics, 2017 ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition (Accepted, March 2017).
• S.M. Kamrul Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, Jasmine S. Tanthongsack, Mahesh V. Hosur, 鈥淎 Study on the Effect of Halloysite Nanotubes on the Thermal, Durability and Biodegradability Performance of Poly-(hydroxy -butyrate-hydroxy-valerate)-PHBV Nano Bio-composites鈥�, The Composite and Advanced Materials Expo, TP17-0239, Orlando, FL (Submitted).
• Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Mackenzie Matthews, Mahesh V. Hosur, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥淓ffect of Varying Degree of Functionalization on Crosslinking and Interfacial Properties of Amine (NH₂) Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposite: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Approach鈥� University Research Symposium-SAMPE 2017(Submitted).

Patent Applications

• Ethridge, A., Findley, D., and听Curry, M.听鈥淎 Multifunctional Benchtop Nanoreactor Design for High-Throughput Synthesis of Complex Metallic Nanoparticles鈥澨�(university intellectual disclosure patent application accepted July 21,听2016 (application submitted May 23, 2017).
• White, D. and听Curry, M.听鈥淎 Facile Method for the Suspension of Nanocellulose and Fabrication of Biodegradable Cellulose-based Plastics听(university intellectual disclosure patent application accepted July 21,听2016).
• Filtration system and methods of using such system for improved water filtration, Vijaya Rangari, Vitus Apalangya, Bonifce Tiimob, Temesgen Samuel: Submittee, pending, USPA#15-492-878,

Presentations

• Mahesh Hosur, Bionanocomposites from Natural and Waste Resources, International Conference on Green Chemistry/Engineering and Technologies for Sustainable Development (GCET) under the aegis of Indo-US Knowledge Partnership at Panjab University, Chandigarh in India on April 20-22, 2017.
• Vertonica Powell-Rose, Mahesh Hosur, Shaik Jeelani, Influence of Nanoclay on Curing, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Bio-Based Epoxy Resin System, CAMX, The Composites and Advanced materials Expo, September 26-29, 2016, Anaheim, CA.
• Meadows, S., Young, C., Abugri, D., and Jeelani, S., 2016. Studies on the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. In American Society for Composites (Conference Proceedings), September 19-22, 2016
• Shatori Meadows, Christina Young, Daniel Abugri, Mahesh Hosur, Shaik Jeelani. Investigation into the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. ASC 31^st Technical Conference, September 19-22, 2016. Williamsburg, Virginia, oral presentation.
• Shatori Meadows, Mahesh Hosur, Alfred Tcherbi-Narteh, Gaurav Hosur, Shaik Jeelani. Investigation into the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. 2016 SAMPE University Research Symposium International Conference. September 24-29, 2016. Anaheim, California. Oral presentation.
• Shatori Meadows, Mahesh Hosur, Alfred Tcherbi-Narteh, Shaik Jeelani. Optimization and Control Studies on the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil (ESO). Emerging Research National (ERN) Conference in STEM. March 2-4, 2017. Washington, DC. Oral presentation.
• Shatori Meadows, Mahesh Hosur, Shaik Jeelani. Studies on the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. 2016 Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE) Conference. September 7-9, 2016. Novi, Michigan. 听Poster presentation.
• Shatori Meadows, Mahesh Hosur, Daniel Abugri, Shaik Jeelani. Optimization and Control Studies on the Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxidized Soybean Oil (ESO). Nanobio Summit. October 13-14, 2016. Auburn, Alabama. Poster presentation.
• Donald H. White, Chemar Huntley, and Michael L. Curry, 253rd ACS National Meeting 鈥淔acile Method for the Suspension, Dispersion, and Fabrication of Cellulose-based Plastics鈥� San Francisco, California, April 2-6, 2017. PAPER ID: 2658926听
• Manal Alwohaibi, Chemar Huntley, and Michael L. Curry 253rd ACS National Meeting 鈥淓xtraction and characterization of nanocellulose from different biomass sources鈥� 听San Francisco, California, April 2-6, 2017. PAPER ID: 2658868
• Donald H. White, Chemar Huntley, and Michael L. Curry 253rd ACS National Meeting 鈥淪ynthesis and fabrication of CNF-based plastic nanocomposites鈥� San Francisco, California, April 2-6, 2017. PAPER ID: 2659069听
• Alicia L. Curry, Inez Hua, and Michael L. Curry 253rd ACS National Meeting 鈥淩esearch Experiences for Teachers (RET) site: Sustainable Electronics鈥� San Francisco, California, April 2-6, 2017. PAPER ID: 2665392
• Aiesha L. Ethridge, Amir I. Mills, Demetrius A. Finley, Michael L. Curry. 鈥淪ynthesis and Characterization of PEI-coated Copper Nanoparticles.鈥� Joint Annual Research Symposium, Tuskegee, AL, 17 March 2017. Oral presentation.
• Aiesha L. Ethridge, Amir I. Mills, Demetrius A. Finley, Michael L. Curry. 鈥淢ultifunctional methods to Synthesize Metallic Nanoparticles and their Antimicrobial Properties. Emerging Researchers National Conference in STEM, Washington, D.C., 2-4 March 2017. Oral presentation.
• Aiesha L. Ethridge, Amir I. Mills, Demetrius A. Finley, Michael L. Curry. 鈥淐onstruction of Solid State Nanoreactor for the Synthesis and Characterization of Large Scale Metallic Nanoparticles.听 NanoBio Summit 2016 Conference, Auburn, AL, 13-14 October 2016, poster presentation.
• Polymeric bio-resins based on fast pyrolysis bio-oil, M.L. Auad, invited speaker, Frontiers in Biorefining, St. Simons Island, SC, November 8-11^th, 2016.
• Polymers for advanced Applications, M.L. Auad, 2^nd Ibero American Conference in Instrumentation and applied Science, Guatemala, October 26-28^th 2016.
• Bio-Based Polymers based on Fast Pyrolysis Bio-oil, M.L. Auad, invited keynote speaker, 7^th Green Chemistry Conference, San Jose, Costa Rica, September 20-24^th, 2016.
• Development of Bio-Based Novolac-Epoxy Interpenetrating Polymer Networks, Mehul Barde*, Maria L. Auad, Graduate Engineering Research Showcase 2016,听听 Auburn University, AL, October 2016. Poster presentation.
• Drug Delivery Mechanism of Sulfathiazole from Polyurethane Films, Montoia Davis*, Mehul Barde*, Shivani Rangari*, Maria L. Auad, 2016 Annual Student Conference, AIChE, San Francisco, CA, November 2016. Poster presentation.
• Pyrolysis Bio-oil as Precursor of Polymeric Bio-Based Resins, M.L. Auad, B. Sibaja*, M. Barde*, International Carbohydrate Symposium, ICS 2016, New Orleans, LA,听 July 17- 21, 2016. Oral presentation.
• S M Kamrul Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, A Study on the Effect of Halloysite Nanotubes on the Thermal, Durability and Biodegradability Performance of Poly-(hydroxy -butyrate-hydroxy-valerate)-PHBV Nano Bio-composites, JARS, March 17,2017. Oral presentation.
• Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Amari Carter, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥�Control and Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Added Epon 862 Nanocomposites: Investigating the Crosslinking Behavior and Interfacial Properties through Molecular Dynamic Simulations,鈥� JAR Symposium, March 17-18, 2016, Tuskegee, Alabama, USA. Oral presentation.
• Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Amari carter, Mackenzie Matthews, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥渟ingle-walled carbon nanotube added Epon 862 nanocomposites: investigating the crosslinking behavior and interfacial properties through molecular dynamics simulations,鈥� SAMPE-2016, May 23-26, 2016, Long Beach, California, USA. Oral presentation.
• Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Amari Carter, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥淐ontrol and Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Added Epon 862 Nanocomposites: Investigating the Crosslinking Behavior and Interfacial Properties through Molecular Dynamic Simulations,鈥� JAR Symposium, March 17-18, 2016, Tuskegee, Alabama, USA. Oral presentation.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan, Dr. Mohammed K. Hossain, "听Processing of Jute Fiber Reinforced Nanophased PLA-PHBV Blend Based Plant Composites鈥�, Professional Agricultural Workers Conference, Dec. 3-5, 2016, Kellogg Center, 扣扣传媒University, Tuskegee, AL., USA. (First Place Winner), 2017. Poster presentation.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan, Dr. Shaik听Zainuddin, "Optimization of Mechanical, Fire Retardant, and 听 听 Thermal Stability of Bio-Fiber Composites for Transportation Applications", Transportation Research Board, Walter E. Washington Convention Center, January 8-11, 2017, Washington, D.C., USA. Poster presentation.
• S M Kamrul Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, A Study on the Effect of Halloysite Nanotubes on the Thermal, Durability and Biodegradability Performance of Poly-(hydroxy-butyrate-hydroxy-valerate)-PHBV Nano Bio-composites, Sigma XI Student Research Showcase, March 3-5, 2017. Virtual Presentation (https://shasan4051.wixsite.com/website) Poster presentation.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan,听Dr. Shaik听Zainuddin, "Optimization of Mechanical, Fire Retardant, and 听 听 Thermal Stability of Bio-Fiber Composites for Transportation Applications", Student Research Showcase, March 22, 2017, Online Showcase, Sigma Xi. USA. (Virtual Presentation) Poster presentation.
• S M K Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, Jasmine Tanthongsack, Mahesh Hosur, Lawrence Allen, Thermal, Fire Retardancy, and Biodegradability Properties of PHBV/HNTs Bio-Nanocomposites, JARS, March 17, 2017. Poster presentation.
• Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Amari Carter, Mahesh V. Hosur, Shaik Jeelani, 鈥淚nterfacial Properties of Polymer/carbon Nanotubes: A Molecular Dynamics Study,鈥� Sigma Xi 2017 Student Research Showcase. (Virtual Presentation-()) Poster presentation.
• S M K Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, Jasmine Tanthongsack, Mahesh Hosur, Lawrence Allen, Thermal, Fire Retardancy, and Biodegradability Properties of PHBV/HNTs Bio-Nanocomposites, The Composite of Advanced Materials Expo, September 11-14, 2017. Poster presentation.
• Andrea Willis, Farooq Syed, Shaik Zainuddin, Mahesh Hosur, 鈥淢olecular dynamics simulation study to investigate the effect of SWCNT diameter on the interfacial properties of Epon composites.鈥澨� ERN Conference, March 2-4, 2016 Washington D.C, USA. Poster presentation.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan, Dr. Mohammed K. Hossain, "听Processing of Jute Fiber Reinforced Nanophased PLA-PHBV Blend Based Plant Composite", Nanobio Summit, Oct. 13-14, 2016, Student Center, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA. Poster presentation.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan, Dr. Mohammed K. Hossain, "听Processing of Jute Fiber Reinforced 听 听 听Nanophased PLA-PHBV Blend Based Plant Composite",听George Washington Carver Lecture Series, Nov. 3,2016, George Washington Carver Museum, 扣扣传媒University, Tuskegee, AL, USA. Poster presentation.
• S M K Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, Optimization and Durability Enhancement of PHBV Biopolymer Composite with the Incorporation of Halloysite Nanotube, Department of Material Science and Engineering, 扣扣传媒University, NSF-CREST Annual External Advisory Board Meeting, June 13, 2016, Poster presentation.
• S M K Hasan, Shaik Zainuddin, Mahesh Hosur, Shaik Jeelani, Study on Thermal, Mechanical, Durability and Fire Retardant property of PHBV/HNT nanocomposite, Department of Material Science and Engineering, 扣扣传媒University, NanoBio Summit-2016, Auburn University. Poster presentation.
• S M K Hasan, J. Tanthongsack, S.N. Shaily, T.Mickens, M. K. Hossain, Mechanical Characterization of Nanophased Jute Fiber Reinforced PLA-PHBV Biocomposite, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 扣扣传媒University, NanoBio Summit-2016 (October 13-14), Auburn University. Poster presentation.
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. 鈥淗ighly Porous Carbon Nanoparticles from Recycled Waste Papers for Water Filtration applications鈥� in Emory STEM Symposia, Emory Conference Center, October 1-3, 2017 (Abstract).
• Manik C. Biswas, Boniface J. Tiimob, Woubit Abdela, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. 鈥淣ano Silica-Carbon-Silver Ternary Hybrid Induced Antimicrobial Composite Films鈥� in CAMX, Orlando, Florida, September 11-14, 2017 (Abstract).
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. "Influence of Biogenic nano Silica-amorphous Carbon hybrid on Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Biodegradable Polymer (Ecoflex)鈥� in SAMPE, Seattle, May 22-25, 2017 (Abstract & Poster Presentation).
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. 鈥淗ighly Porous Carbon Nanoparticles from Recycled Waste Papers for Water Filtration applications鈥� in SAMPE, Seattle, May 22-25, 2017 (Abstract & Oral Presentation).
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. 鈥淗ighly Porous Carbon Nanoparticles from Recycled Waste Papers for Water Filtration applications鈥� in JARS, Tuskegee, March 17, 2017 (Abstract & Poster Presentation).
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. "Influence of Biogenic nano Silica-amorphous Carbon hybrid on Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Biodegradable Polymer (Ecoflex)鈥� in Emerging Researchers National (ERN) Conference in STEM, on March 2-4, 2017 (Abstract).
• Manik C. Biswas, Shaik Jeelani, Vijaya K. Rangari. 鈥淚nfluence of Biogenic nano Silica-amorphous Carbon hybrid on Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Biodegradable Polymer (Ecoflex)鈥� in Nano Bio Summit-2016, Auburn University, AL. 13-14th October, 2016 (Abstract & Poster Presentation).
• Aaron Judson, Manik C. Biswas, Boniface Tiimob, Vijaya Rangari, Temesgen Samuel1. 鈥淔easibility of Printing 3D Bone Models for Education at TUCVM鈥�.听 In 18 th annual Biomedical Research Symposium, College of Veterinary Medicine, 扣扣传媒University for poster presentation, September 16, 2016. (Abstract & Poster Presentation).
• S. Gaillard, S. Ahmed, L. Jiang, M. Biswas, V. Rangari, N.S. Korivi, Biomimetic micromolding: Micro- and Nano-structuring of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) using Bio- and Nature Inspired Templates鈥�. In EIPBN, Walt Disney World Disney鈥檚 Coronado Springs Resort Lake Buena Vista, Florida May 30 鈥� June 2, 2017 (Abstract).

Honors/Awards

• Best Poster in Polymer and Fiber Engineering, Development of Bio-Based Novolac-Epoxy Interpenetrating Polymer Networks, Mehul Barde, Maria L. Auad, Graduate Engineering Research Showcase 2016, Auburn University, AL, October 2016.
• Best Poster in Materials Engineering and Sciences, AIChE, Drug Delivery Mechanism of Sulfathiazole from Polyurethane Films, Montoia Davis, Mehul Barde, Shivani Rangari, Maria L. Auad, 2016 Annual Student Conference, AIChE, San Francisco, CA, November 2016.
• Jasmine Tanthongsack, S. M. Kamrul Hasan, Dr. Mohammed K. Hossain, "听Processing of Jute Fiber Reinforced Nanophased PLA-PHBV Blend Based Plant Composite鈥�. Professional Agricultural Workers Conference, Dec. 3-5, 2016, Kellogg Center, 扣扣传媒University, Tuskegee, AL., USA. (First Place Winner), 2017.
• Farooq Syed- Graduate Research Scholar Program Award- National Science Foundation-EPSCoR. (2016-2017)
• Farooq Syed-Poster Presentation Award (JARS Symposium 2016) (Second Prize)
• Farooq Syed-Poster Presentation Award (SAMPE Conference, Long Beach CA 2016 (Third Prize)
• Farooq Syed-University Research Symposium, CAMX 2017 (Semifinalist)

Student Graduations

Ph.D

• Muhammad Rahman, Protein Based Green Resins and Nanocomposites from Waste Residues, PhD, August, 2017, Cornell University.
• Bernal Sibaja Hernandez, Thermosetting Polymers from Renewable Resources, PhD, August 2016. Auburn University.
• Boniface Jabik Tiimob, Development of antimicrobial flexible biodegradable polymer blend alternative packaging material, Ph. D, July 2016. 扣扣传媒University.
• Hannah Harding, Synthesis of carbon from e-waste and its comparison with high grade commercial carbon for electronic and polymer reinforcement applications, Ph. D, July 2016.
• Vertonica Powell-Rose, Fabrication, Characterization and Biodegradability Studies of Flax Fiber Reinforced Biopolymer/Nanoparticle Composites, Ph. D., July 2017, 扣扣传媒University.
• Chemar Jordae Huntley, The Influence of Functionalization on the Biodegradability and Recyclability of Cellulose-Reinforced ABS and HIPS Plastics, Ph. D., July 2017.

M.S. (all from 扣扣传媒University)

• Md. Shariful Islam, 鈥淚nterconversion of Cellulose 1 to Cellulose II: A Study of Time and Temperature Effects on Its Microstructure an Comparative analysis of its Conversion to CNFs and CNCs by Chemical Methods鈥� MS, July 2016.
• Alandria Moche` Allen, Fabrication and Characterization of Thin Films, and Fibers Spunned from Poly (Lactic Acid) Reinforced with Lignin, Graphene and Nanoclay Nanoparticles, July 2017.
• S M Kamrul Hasan, Study of Thermal, Mechanical, Durability, and Fire-Retardant Properties of Jute Fiber/PHBV Nanocomposites, July 2017.
• Manik Biswas, Preparation and Characterization of Carbon Based Nanomaterials from Recycled Waste Materials and Their Potential Applications in Packaging, Energy Storage, and Water Treatment, July 2017.

Sustainability Efforts (2016-2017)

• Collaborative Research: Making to Advance Knowledge, Excellence, and Recognition in STEM (MAKERS), PI: Mohammed Qazi and CoPI: Michael Curry, and Shaik Zainuddin, NSF DUE, $1,873,571.00, 10/2016-08/2021听听听听听听听听听听
• Collaborative Research: Building Unique Inventions to Launch Discoveries, Engagement and Reasoning in STEM (BUILDERS), PI: Mohammed Qazi and CoPI: Michael Curry, Alicia Curry, Mohamed Abdalla, and Shaik Zainuddin, NSF DRL, $704,535.00, 03/2017-08/2020
• Implementation Project: Preparing Interdisciplinary Minority Material Scientists and Engineers of the Future PI: Shaik Jeelani and CoPI: Michael Curry, Mohammed Qazi, Vijay Rangari, and Mahesh Hosur, NSF HRD, $1,799,388.00, 07/2017-08/2022
• Hydrophobic Bio-Oil-Epoxy Binders for Wood Composites, USDA-NIFA, Via, Adhikari, Auad, Puettmann, $481,539, 12/01/16 - 11/30/19.
• Applying Nanoparticle Composite Materials to Mitigate Effects of Aircraft Bird Strikes, NSF SBIR IIA RISE-PI: Vijay Rangari, $99,188, 12/1/2016-11/30/2017.
• REU-Site: 扣扣传媒University Research Experience for Undergraduates in Nano-Bio Materials Science and Engineering, Shaik Zainuddin (PI), Mahesh Hosur (Co-PI), National Science Foundation, $377,994, 03/01/2017-02/28/2020.