The Electroactive Materials Characterization Laboratory (EMCLab) is an experimental research facility dedicated to advancing the application of smart polymer-based materials in sensing, actuation, energy storage and energy harvesting.

Our research enables materials for a broad range of distributed sensors and actuators, flexible transducers for unmanned aerial vehicles, responsive aircraft and spacecraft systems, and lightweight dielectric materials for capacitor applications. Our research also has significant implications for the development of load-bearing, active material systems that can result in concurrent weight reduction and functional performance. For example, lightweight, thermally stable strain sensors will transform the design and maintenance of airframes and satellites by providing a smart means of remotely monitoring the structural health of such systems. In addition, collocated sensing and actuation functions in a low-density material could significantly increase the reliability and functionality of unmanned missions while reducing complexity and payload.

The main research thrusts of the group are active polymers and polymer nanocomposites; processing and characterization of polymer nanocomposites.

EMCLab News