MME Labs
Polymer Extrusion Lab (PEL)
Contact: , Ph.D.
Since 2012, the Polymer Extrusion Lab (PEL) has been setting the trend for the development and characterization of novel thermoplastic materials for additive manufacturing platforms based on fused deposition modeling FDM™ technology. The PEL is fully equipped with several single and twin screw extruders as well as a cadre of characterization equipment. The lab is capable of creating novel polymeric blends and composites with customizable physical attributes. We have focused on the development of materials with tunable electromagnetic properties, radiation shield capability, and plasticity among many others. We also have a strong focus in the recycling of thermoplastics, environmental degradation mechanisms and polymer failure analysis. The lab has a strong expertise in polymeric materials characterization including specimen preparation for electron microscopy techniques.
Pertinent Equipment:
- Dr. Collin ZK 25-T twin screw extruder / compounder with monofilament spooling system and pelletizer
- 3 Filabot EX2 single screw extruders
- Filabot Spooler
- Filabot Air Path
- Filabot Reclaimer
- 2 Carver hot press units
- Tinius Olsen IT 504 polymer impact tester
- Tinius Olsen MP 1200 melt indexer
- Mitutoyo durometer
- Brabender GranuGrinder
- Filabot Industrial Reclaimer
- QUV environmental testing machine
- DriAir CAFM micro dryer
- Rostock Max Delta 3D printer
- 3 Lulzbot Taz 3D printers
- Custom strand pelletizer
- RMC ultramicrotome with cryo unit and ultrasonic knife
- Hitachi SU 3500 SEM equipped with a STEM detector
- Thermo Scientific FTIR with ATR Module
- JEOL Smart Coater
- Perkin Elmer Thermal Characterization Suite (DSC/TGA/DMA)