11/01/2022
By Erin Caples

The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Department of Plastics Engineering, invites you to attend a master's thesis defense by Ian MacKay on “Injection Molding Replication of Femtosecond Laser Ablated Hierarchical Surface Structures.”

Candidate Name: Ian MacKay
Defense Date: Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: ETIC 445

Committee:

  • Advisor: Davide Masato, Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Carol Barry, Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Stephen Johnston, Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Peng Gao, Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Brief Abstract:

In this research, different mold inserts were textured using an ultrashort femtosecond pulsed laser ablation process for use in the manufacturing of functional plastic parts. All inserts are characterized by hierarchical topography to enable static and dynamic wetting functionalization. Injection molding experiments were conducted to manufacture textured plastic parts using three different polymers (polypropylene, poly(methyl methacrylate), and a polybutylene adipate terephthalate – polylactic acid blend). The inserts and the molded parts were characterized using atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, drop shape analysis, and optical profilometry. Correlations between the topographical parameters, the polymer properties, and surface functionality parameters are evaluated from the experimental data.

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