The goal of this project is understand the heat transfer and mass transfer associated with the ignition and combustion of 3D-printed biopolymer nanocomposites. Literature is scarce on the use of polymer nanocomposites for 3D-printing applications to reduce their flammability hazards, although this technique is effective in bulk polymers manufactured using thermocompression. Samples manufactured using thermocompression show a uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, leading to a homogeneous and isotropic material structure. By comparison, samples manufactured using 3D printing show different structural characteristics. Besides the anisotropic properties and the presence of voids, 3D-printed parts often are not uniformly filled; instead, they have internal infill patterns that provide structural support while minimizing material usage. The choice of infill density can affect the heat transfer and mass transfer in the anisotropic condensed phase of burning polymers. However, few studies have been performed to investigate these effects and gain a fundamental understanding. The project will fill this knowledge gap with three main objectives: (i) synthesize biopolymer nanocomposites-based filaments for 3D printing, (ii) manufacture samples using FFF and determine structural characterization, and (iii) study ignition and combustion behaviors of 3D-printed PLA nanocomposite samples under well-controlled fire conditions. This project is expected to promote the development of performance-efficient and cost effective flame retardant biopolymer nanocomposites for sustainable 3D printing applications. 

Thermo-responsive hydrogels show promise as eco-friendly file suppression agents, but their application is limited by unoptimized formulations and gaps in understanding of their thermophysical properties and interactions with fire. This fellowship will advance hydrogel-based fire suppression through a collaboration between OSU and UMD, combining innovative material development with advanced fire testing. The project has three aims: 1) optimize hydrogel formulations for thermal resistance, adhesion, and cooling; 2) evaluate performance in bench-scale tests simulating wildland and battery fires; and 3) investigate suppression mechanisms to understand how formulation components influence effectiveness. This work will provide insights into hydrogel-fire interactions, guiding the development of next-generation agents with improved field applicability. Beyond advancing fire safety science, the project will strengthen Oklahoma’s research capacity, enhance public safety, and inspire future STEM learners through community engagement and hands-on training. This project is supported by the EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement Program: EPSCoR Research Fellows (ERF), which supports early- and mid-career investigators in eligible jurisdictions to develop collaborations at the nation’s private, government or academic research institutions.