Design and Integration of Analog Building Blocks for High Energy Experiments in Deep Submicron ICs

65451 In-line, near-infrared spectrometry is typically used as a method of real-time feedback control during the manufacturing of polymers. However, this method cannot sufficiently measure all of the parameters (such as the melt index) needed for optimal process control, resulting in reduced yields and energy losses. This project will use near-infrared spectropolarimetry to measure, the chemical composition, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution of flowing polymers, which will allow the melt index to be determined in near-real-time. Feedback control will be increased, leading to an increased yield of desired compounds and a reduced energy consumption. During Phase I, a laboratory prototype system will be developed for measuring the complex polarization characteristics of a polymer film. The data acquisition and signal processing architecture will be determined for correlating the polarization data with molecular weight. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The on-line measurement tool should have broad applicability in the areas of catalysts and enabling sciences such as selective oxidation, alkane activation, byproduct and wastewater minimization, selective synthesis such as stereo and regioselective synthesis, alkylation, and olefin polymerization.