Project Description
Project Objectives:
• Develop multilayered anticorrosive treatments/coatings with superhydrophobic/icephobic performance based on organic silicon compounds applied over self-assembling nano-engineered surfaces;
• Evaluate the bonding mechanism, adhesion, and structural integrity of the coating interlayer bonded to the substrate concrete or model ceramic surfaces, as tested by friction tribometry;
• Demonstrate the icephobic and durability performance of the developed SIP coatings with respect to wearing under service loads due to the application of cyclic friction;
• Evaluate the long-term wetting of the coatings before and after exposure to mechanical friction and weathering conditions such as UV-light exposure, cyclic wetting, and drying in deicing solutions based on chlorides;
• Create SIP treatments/coating applied on concrete surfaces to further evaluate the structural performance based on full-scale exposures and validate field concrete’s anticorrosive performance and durability.
Methodology: This investigation will serve as a platform for developing the next generation of concrete, including those with ultra-high durability and increased volumes of mineral additives. The proposed SIP coatings use nanoparticle film with a designed micro-texture that mimics the Lotus leaf effect engineered for hydrophobic performance. This approach can assure a long-lasting superhydrophobic and icephobic response and result in enhanced concrete service life by a factor of two.
Tasks and Responsibilites
The student will work as a research/project assistant and will be responsible for the design and lab work associated with the project. The student will also be responsible for the literature review, testing of concrete and cementitious materials; modeling; the evaluation of test data such as mechanical and durability properties, materials characterization, and durability testing.
Desired Qualifications
None Listed.