Poly (olefin sulfone)s (POSs) are 1:1 alternating copolymers of sulfur dioxide and olefin monomers that are synthesized by free radical polymerization of an alkene in liquefied sulfur dioxide. POSs are known to undergo triggered depolymerization into their constituent monomers upon exposure to heat, base, or high energy radiation. We will present the development of novel optimized POS structures for the wrapping of nanomaterials, which serve as a platform for the detection, characterization, and dosimetry of ionizing radiation. Our sensory system makes use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) integrated in an insulating POS polymer matrix that can undergo rapid depolymerization when subjected to gamma irradiation. Disassembly of the polymer matrix results in increased contacts between the carbon nanotubes creating an additional electrical pathway that is readily detectable by changes in resistance and capacitance of our sensor devices. This method is advantageous over present systems for the detection and dosimetry of ionizing radiation, which suffer from drawbacks including expensive and/or complicated manufacturing, need for operation at low temperatures, or voluminous size. We will further discuss the sensitivity of our small devices and the influence of an incorporation of high atomic number molecular or nanoparticulate components into our polymer matrix.

Functional poly (olefin sulfone) / carbon nanotube composites and their application as radiation detection sensors

254th National Meeting (2017)

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