11/29/2021
By Sokny Long

The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Plastics Engineering, invites you to attend a Ph.D. proposal defense by Bryan Weidknecht on “Evaluation of an Extrusion-Injection System Used in the Micro-Molding of PLGA-Hydroxyapatite Composites.”

Ph.D. Candidate: Bryan Weidknecht
Defense Date: Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021
Time: 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Location: This will be a virtual defense via MS Teams. Those interested in attending should contact the student, bryan.weidknecht@smith-nephew, and committee advisor, David_Kazmer@uml.edu, at least 24 hours prior to the defense to request access to the meeting.

Committee Chair (Advisor): David Kazmer, Professor, Plastics Engineering, UMass Lowell

Committee Members:

  • Stephen Johnston, Plastics Engineering, UMass Lowell
  • Jay Park, Plastics Engineering, UMass Lowell
  • Davide Masato, Plastics Engineering, UMass Lowell

Brief Abstract:

This dissertation aims to evaluate an unique micro-molding solution for producing PLGA [85/15]/ Hydroxyapatite [15%w/w] composites. The unique micro-molding solution consolidates mixing, extrusion, and molding of this material into one process.

Molecular weight is a primary concern with these bio-composites with regards to degradation and mechanical properties. Molecular weight loss of the consolidated system will be compared to traditional compounding and molding systems.
Open vs closed loop control strategies of this system are proposed. These will be tested and compared for shot-to-shot process consistency. The unique molding solution allows multiple components to be fabricated simultaneously without the disadvantages of traditional means.

All interested students and faculty members are invited to attend the online defense via remote access.