Achievement

Fibers have been used by humans since the beginning of civilization in making ropes, clothing, weapons, bridges, parachutes, and more, so their potential for high-technology applications is often overlooked. Prof. Juan Hinestroza presented a hands-on IGERT module that introduced students to the world of fibers and the methods used to modify and enhance their surface properties. The module included an introductory lecture on novel applications of fibers, characterization and processing methods for natural and synthetic fibers, and strategies for fiber surface functionalization. The module included a hands-on SEM-based investigation of the main differences between natural and synthetic fibrous materials.