School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering Seminar Series Presents “Designed Polymer nanoComposites for Electrochemical applications” Presented by Dr. Shahrzad Rahmani
About the event
Presented by: Dr. Shahrzad Rahmani, Postdoctoral Researcher, WSU
Abstract: The field of electrochemical applications has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, and the development of designed polymer nanocomposites has played a crucial role in driving these advancements. In this presentation, I will provide a brief overview of the designed polymer nanocomposites that I have been working on thus far. At first, the focus is on the use of coaxially electrospun nanofibers, with the PVDF core and ionomer shell. This design supposed to provide mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and proton conductivity of fuel cell membranes. In addition, in situ crosslinking of sulfonated silicate within the core-shell architecture is also introduced as another designed nanocomposite which incredibly enhanced the membrane’s ion conductivity and strength. Moreover, the presentation explores the application of blend electrospun in lithium-ion batteries, offering improved performance and potential for advancements in battery technologies. At the end, a unique synthesized hybrid hydrogel is showcased as an ion conductive membrane for ionic metal composites in artificial muscle applications. This ion conductive hydrogel design exhibits superior ion conductivity, flexibility, and swelling characteristics, making it ideal for use in biomedical applications. In summary, this presentation highlights innovative designs of polymer nanocomposites for a diverse range of electrochemical applications including the energy and Biomed.
Biography: Shahrzad Rahmani is a highly accomplished professional in the field of polymer engineering, specializing in polymer science and technology. She obtained her’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees from Tehran Polytechnique (Amirkabir), where she consistently displayed in her academic pursuits. During her graduate studies, Shahrzad focused her research on the development of ionomer core-shell electrospun fiber for fuel cell membrane applications, making significant contributions the field of alternative energy sources. In pursuit of further knowledge and experience, Shahrzad had the opportunity to undertake an internship at Vanderbilt University.This experience further honed her skills and gave her invaluable exposure to cutting-edge in the field. After completing her PhD, Shahrzad assumed the role of an assistant professor, where she continued her work in polymer-based membranes for a range of applications including lithium-ion batteries, Sensors and actuators and Green applications. Her works have been published at International Journal of Energy Research, European Polymer Journal, Polymer Engineering & Science, Polymer Bulleting, Applied polymer Science, etc.