DESCRIPTION

Scientists at the University of California at Berkeley have developed a novel and direct method of producing a variety of composite materials that combine the high compressive strength of inorganic glasses with the high tensile strength of organic polymers. By reinforcing an inorganic glass matrix with a three dimensional, cross-linked organic polymer network, a superior, optically transparent material is obtained. This new synthesis is an improvement upon the traditional "sol-gel" process of producing inorganic glasses in that it eliminates the shrinkage caused by the removal of alcohols and co-solvents during drying. In this new method, the proper choice of polymer precursors and solvents allows polymerization of all components of the system. Shrinkage is therefore no longer a problem because by-products are minimized.

STATUS

CONTACT

William A. Hoskins
The University of California at Berkeley
Office of Technology Licensing
2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 510
Berkeley, CA 94720-1620
Email: bhoskins@uclink4.berkeley.edu

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