Author(s)

C. A. Weiss, Jr., P. G. Malone, R. D. Moser, P. G. Allison, R. G. Hidalgo-Hernandez, O. R. Negron, M. Q. Chandler, S. W. Morefield & K. Torres-Cancel

Abstract

For decades, researchers gradually unveiled the fascinating design principles that give biomaterials extraordinary properties and functionality. The US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is incorporating these design principles to develop hierarchical materials for structural applications. Electrophoretic deposition is one method being explored to create the hierarchical structures. This research details the synthesis of hierarchical nanocomposites composed of calcium carbonate by using electrotransport and electrophoretic deposition to migrate calcium and carbonate ions through a polymer matrix. This process allows better control of the crystal form, size, and location in the polymer matrix, allowing for fabrication of composite materials with optimized mechanical properties for various loading conditions. Other research efforts focused on the use of hydrothermal processing techniques to promote the oriented recrystallization of calcium carbonate. These techniques are being used successfully to fabricate composites for characterization and mechanical testing. Keywords: nanocomposites, bio-inspired, electrophoresis, electro-transport.

Keywords

nanocomposites, bio-inspired, electrophoresis, electro-transport.