PROCESSING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYMERS: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON THERMAL AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
A dual investigation merges lunar power transmission and neuromodulation in polymer applications. In the first part, nanocomposites for a high-voltage power transmission on the moon enhance thermal conductivity (k) and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) by incorporating hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), MXene (Ti3C2), and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). A unique mixing procedure ensures optimal homogeneity, resulting in exceptional k and thermal/electrical percolation. Advanced techniques, including laser diffraction analysis (LDA), laser flash analysis (LFA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dielectric spectroscopy, and 4-point probe, provide insights into filler size and percolation dynamics impacting thermal/electrical properties. The second part explores the photothermal effect of confined water encapsulated in biodegradable nanoparticles for non-invasive neuromodulation. Electrospraying and double emulsion methods are optimized, confirming the photothermal effect through temperature profiles from IR camera measurement. The study concludes with recommendations, addressing limitations and proposing future directions for comprehensive advancements.