Timothy Long

Research Interests

The Long group investigates structure-property-morphology-processing relationships of polymers, ranging from high performance thermoplastics and thermosets to biologically-derived/inspired macromolecules. In particular, the Long group focuses on the effect of noncovalent interactions on the resulting polymer properties, including hydrogen bonding and ionic aggregation. The design, performance, and societal implication of novel polymeric materials direct our research platform which focuses on the following impactful technologies: (1) new materials for advanced manufacturing, (2) bio-inspired thermoplastics, (3) adhesive technology, and (4) charged polymers for actuators. Polymers featuring tailored monomer sequences and designs afford microphase separated structures and enhance the performance of adhesives and 3D printing technology. The use of biologically derived monomers such as urea afford bio-degradable thermoplastics which release significant levels of ammonia. Alternatively, nucleobase-containing polymers afford sequence-controlled adhesives and microphase separated morphologies. 3D printing techniques enables controlled polymer placement, unlocking architectures and constructs never engineered before. Taking advantage of these techniques allows for the unprecedented processing of polyimides or development of time-controlled dissolvable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based constructs. Lastly, structure-property relationship development of high-performance polymers such as polyesters, polysulfones, and polyimides offers opportunities to enhance processing, barrier, stability, and mechanical properties.