University of Delaware
CHEMISTRY & MATERIALS
University of Delaware
Office of Economic Innovation
& Partnerships
1 Innovation Way, Suite 500
Delaware Technology Park
Newark, DE 19711
Ph: (302) 831-4005
techtransfer@udel.edu
Version: 14.2
Technologies Available for Licensing
Page
No.
Invention Title
Case
Number
1
Method to Homogenously Blend Immiscible Polymers
UD91-13
2
Rapid and Effective Microencapsulation of Materials
UD96-14
3
Method for Water Purification Using Zero-Valent Metal
UD08-31
4
Convenient Method for Production of Potassium Hydride
UD09-27
5
Detection of Genetically Encodable Kinases and Phosphates
UD10-35
6
Magnetic Nanoflakes
UD10-42
7
Improved Biofuel Screening Process
UD10-49
8
Cost Effective Method for Hydrogel Release and Degradation
UD12-10
9
Breathable Eco-Leather Composites
UD12-28
10
Stringing Cations in Hydroxide Exchange Membranes for Low Water
Uptake and High Hydroxide Conductivity
UD13-04
11
Novel Probes With Enhanced Specificity and Sensitivity in Magnetic
Imaging Applications (NMR, MRS, MRI)
UD13-15
12
Reduction of Lipase Activity in Product Formulation
UD13-21
13
Gold Nanorod/Polymer Nanocomposite Based Sensors/Detectors
UD13-23
Page
No.
Invention Title
Case
Number
14
Bio-Based Block Copolymers Derived from Lignin and Plant Oils
UD13-25
15
Energy Storage and Return Orthosis (“ESRO”): A Walking Aid for
Physical Therapy
UD13-27
16
Clay-Based Shear Thickening Fluid Formation and Aqueous Method of
Intercalation into Textiles
UD14-08
17
Nanoporous Metal/Alloy Electrodes as Highly Selective and Efficient
Carbon Dioxide Reduction Catalyst
UD14-12
18
Non-Precious Metal Electrocatalyst with High Activity for Hydrogen
Oxidation Reaction in Alkaline Electrolytes
UD14-13
19
Sludge, Slurry, and Biosolids Dewatering and Drying With a Reusable
Breathable Membrane Process
UD14-19
20
Renewable Phthalic Anhydride from Biomass-Derived Furan and Maleic
Anhydride
UD14-20
21
Efficient Water Oxidation Using Alpha-Nickel-Hydroxide as an
Electrocatalyst
UD14-22
22
Introducing Permethyl-Cobaltocenium Cation as Functional Group for
Polymer Hydroxide Exchange Membranes
UD14-23
23
Tapered Block Copolymer Electrolytes
UD14-28
24
Process to Make Solar Paint
UD14-32
25
Synthetic Methylotrphy to Liquid Fuels and Chemicals
UD14-33
26
Engineering Anaerobic Oxidation of Methane For Liquid Fuel
Biosynthesis
UD14-35
27
Integrated Strengthening and Monitoring of Structures Using Structural
Carbon-Nanotube-Based Sensing Patches
UD14-37
Page
No.
Invention Title
Case
Number
28
Process and Utility of Nanostructured Fabrics
UD14-38
29
Multimode Degradable Hydrogels For Controlled Therapeutic Release
UD14-40
30
Nanoparticle Layer Deposition
UD14-41
31
Fragmented Carbon Nanotube Macro-Films as Adhesive Conductors for
Lithium-Ion Batteries
UD14-42
32
LaCo5-based Anisotropic Permanent Magnet Powder and Method for
Producing the Same
UD14-44
33
System and Process for the Efficient Electrochemical Conversion of Carbon
Dioxide into Carbon Monoxide Using Tin Based Electrodes
UD14-45
34
Templating Metal Oxide Arrays with Block Copolymer Thin Films
UD14-48
35
Selective Production of Renewable Benzoic Acid by Tandem Diels-Alder
and Dehydration Reaction Using Novel Zeolite Hf-Beta
UD14-54
36
Bisphenol Alternatives Derived from Renewable Substituted Phenolics and
their Industrial Application
UD14-55
Method to Homogenously Blend Immiscible Polymers
(UD91-13)
Technology Description:
Homogeneous polymer blends are prepared from otherwise thermodynamically immiscible
polymers, especially including block copolymers. Thus, polymers such as
polystyrene/poly(methyl methacrylate) block copolymer or polystyrene/poly(1,2-butadiene)
block copolymer are dissolved under pressure in supercritical fluid solvents such as
chlorodifluoromethane and n-butane, respectively, and expanded through a fine nozzle. As the
SCF solvent evaporates, the polymer deposits as a substantially homogeneous material.
Fig. Schematic drawing of the polymer precipitation apparatus with polymer
collecting means of the type conveniently used in the present process
Benefits:
 Blending of otherwise thermo-dynamically immisible polymers
Patent Status:
The technology is patented with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 U.S. Issued Patent (No. 5,412,027)
 U.S. Issued Patent (No. 5,567,769)
1
Rapid and Effective Microencapsulation of Materials
(UD96-14)
Technology Description:
The present invention comprises a method for microencapsulating a core material comprising
the steps of a) mixing a core material with an encapsulating polymer, b) supplying a supercritical
fluid capable of swelling the polymer to the mixture under a temperature and a pressure
sufficient to maintain the fluid in a supercritical state, c) allowing the supercritical fluid to
penetrate and liquefy the polymer while maintaining temperature and pressure sufficient to
maintain the fluid in a supercritical state, and d) rapidly releasing the pressure to solidify the
polymer around the core material to form a microcapsule. This method requires neither that the
polymer nor core materials to be soluble in the supercritical fluid and can be used to rapidly and
efficiently microencapsulate a variety of materials for a variety of applications.
Benefits:
Fig. Represents one apparatus useful for forming microparticles by
polymer liquefaction using supercritical salvation
 Rapidly and efficiently microencapsulate a variety of materials for a variety of applications
 Application does not require the polymer or core materials to be soluble
Patent Status:
The technology is patented with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 U.S. Issued Patent (No. 5,766,637)
2
Method for Water Purification Using Zero-Valent Metal
(UD08-31)
THIS TECHNOLOGY IS CURRENTLY OPTIONED EXCLUSIVELY AND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR LICENSING – PLEASE CONTACT
OUR OFFICE FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES
Technology Description:
The invention is a set of Hierarchical Priority and Control Algorithms (HPCA), including associated
data. These algorithms are operating on one or more computers, on and/or off the vehicle.
They sense multiple inputs, learn about driving use via the Driver Adaptation Module (DAM),
and make decisions about the electrical current, reactive power, and timing of charging and/or
discharging of the vehicle. These decisions are made in such a way as to make these electrical
flows beneficial to the grid as well as the vehicle owner and/or operator. The invention also
includes multiple levels of graceful degradation that provide for optimum use of the remaining
resources in the event of a failure.
Fig. Schematic of the invention illustrating nano zero-valent metal particles
supported on a granular medium (left) and a membrane (right)
Uses/Users:
 To reduce material use, reduce product volume and weight, and achieve greater efficiency for
contaminant removal by a zero-valent metal
 To facilitate adoption of the zero-valent metal technology in commercial products through its direct
incorporation into filter media
Patent Status Information:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
• Published U.S. (No. 2011-0139726)
3
Convenient Method for Production of Potassium Hydride
(UD09-27)
THIS TECHNOLOGY IS CURRENTLY LICENSED NON-EXCLUSIVELY AND AVAILABLE FOR NON-EXCLUSIVE LICENSING ONLY
Technology Description:
We had reported the utility of 50% by weight potassium hydride in paraffin wax as a chemical
base. The material used in that study was prepared by washing commercial KH, which came in
liquid mineral oil, then stirring up the powdery white KH in melted paraffin wax. This method
was labor intensive. Desiring to produce KH in paraffin less expensively, we have devised a
procedure for preparing KH in paraffin directly from potassium metal and hydrogen gas.
Fig. Wittig Homologation Using KH(P)
Benefits:
 More convenient method of manufacturing potassium hydride
 Easily scalable
 Procedure homogenizes the thickening suspension of potassium hydride
Patent Status:
The technology is patented with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 U.S. Issued Patent (No. 8,158,101)
4
Detection of Genetically Encodable Kinases and Phosphates
(UD10-35)
Technology Description:
The invention is a novel means for the fluorescent detection of tyrosine activity. A
phosphotyrosine is used to mimic a glutamic acid residue, unlike previous methods, this
approach combines a genetic encodability with the exhibition of large fluorescence changes
upon phosphorylation. Moreover, this approach is applicable to different kinases and
phosphatases through modification of the recognition sequence.
Fig. Shows a design of a protein motif dependent on tyrosine phosphorylation.
Benefits:
 Genetically encodable
 Large fluorescence changes upon phosphorylation
 Applicable to different kinases and phosphatases
Patent Status:
The technology is patented with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 U.S. Issued Patent (No. 8,551,723)
5
Magnetic Nanoflakes
(UD10-42)
Technology Description:
Magnetic nanoflakes fabricated by surfactant assisted, wet, high energy ball milling of bulk
precursors, with or without preceding dry, high energy ball milling, wherein certain nanoflakes
indicate hard magnetic properties, crystallographic texture and magnetic anisotropy.
Fig. Illustrates scanning
electron microscope
images of SmCO5
nanoflakes of the invention
after surfactant-assisted,
wet milling for 180 min.
preceded by dry milling for
(a) 0 min., (b) 15 min., (c)
240min.
Uses/Users:
 Control the particle morphology of hard, permanent magnet materials by surfactant-assisted, wet,
high energy ball milling
 Fabrication by surfactant-assisted, wet, high energy ball-milling ultra-thin, nanoflakes from various
brittle material
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 Published U.S. (No. 2012-0021219)
6
Improved Biofuel Screening Process
(UD10-49)
Technology Description:
The invention improves the biofuel production process by providing a novel method for the
screening of generated phenotypes of process organisms. Whereas previous methods to express
heterogenous genes leave much of the genetic information unable to be screened, this method
instead enhances heterogenous gene expression through specifically engineering the
transcriptional machinery of the host organism. This engineering involves manipulating the host
machinery with sigma factors and RNA-polymerase (both essential to the transcription process)
of the donor organism. The screening process is ameliorated because the host transcription
machinery is thus able to recognize a greater variety of promoters, thereby increasing the
number of heterogonous genes that are expressed and that are able to be screened for
desirability. Moreover, the process of changing the host machinery can itself be manipulated so
that more specific promoters, for more specific process conditions, can be utilized. This would
even further enhance the screening process.
Benefits:
Fig. Shows the GFP-trap library approach
 Improves the screening process to find the desired phenotype of a biofuel process organism from a
large number of phenotypes
 Can be applied to a large variety of donor and host organisms
 Allows for host organism transcription machinery to be engineered in order to meet very specific
criteria of a production process
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
 Published U.S. (No. 2012-0035078)
7
Cost Effective Method for Hydrogel Release and Degradation
(UD12-10)
Technology Description:
The invention provides a means to selectively control the degradation rates of hydrogels and
bioconjugates, such as for drug release in the pharmaceutical industry or implants in the
biomaterials industry. Addition of thiols and maleimides is widely used in preparing biological
conjugates and is known to lead to some product instabilities in vivo, allowing the reverse
reaction (retro Michael addition) to occur. By using a specific thiol in the process, the retro
Michael addition can be rendered permanent at physiological pH and temperature, introducing a
novel technique for controlled degradation and release.
Fig. Proposed Exchange of Synthesized Maleimide Thiol Adducts (1) with Glutathione in
Aqueous Solutions
Benefits:
 Compared to alternative technology, this invention is chemically versatile, and cost-effective
 More selective way to control hydrogel degradation
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
Published U.S. (No. 2013-0244975)
8
Breathable Eco-Leather Composites
(UD12-28)
Technology Description:
The University of Delaware seeks to commercialize through patent
licensing and associated collaborative R&D, a novel bio-based
composite with enhanced breathable and moisture resistant
properties for use as a leather substitute in apparel and industrial
applications.
The invented ‘leather-like breathable composite’ is comprised entirely
of bio-based materials, primarily plant oils, and natural fibers and can
be made into a range of materials with varying thermal and
mechanical properties suited to soft, medium and hard leather.
Unlike current alternatives to leather, this composite is developed
without employing petroleum-based polymers such as PVC or PU.
Liquid molding manufacturing operations such as Resin Transfer
Molding (RTM), Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM),
Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), Bulk Molding Compound (BMC) and
related liquid infusion processes can be used to mass produce this
leather-like materials with excellent properties.
Value Proposition:
Applications:
The objective of this invention is to replace leather-like materials with
more engineered composite materials derived from renewable
resources in a manner to make them better, cheaper and with less
impact on the environment.
Apparel manufacturers for use in athletic
attire/footwear, outdoor camping gear, and
animal conscious high-end apparel.
The annual leather market of 20 billion sq. ft. represents a potential
billion dollar business in new leather substitute materials.
Fig. Working Model of Breathable Leather
The five main industries that use large
amounts of leather are furniture (14%
upholstery), automobile (10%), clothing (14%),
and footwear (52%).
Current Intellectual Property Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully
preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing/partnering opportunities.
Benefits:

100% bio-based, non-toxic and in-compliance with EPA
regulations.

Tunable - Possible to make a range of materials with varying
thermal and mechanical properties suited to soft, medium and
hard leather.

Breathable

Moisture resistant

Low carbon footprint
Published U.S. (No. 2013-0337711)
9
Stringing Cations in Hydroxide Exchange Membranes for Low Water
Uptake and High Hydroxide Conductivity
(UD13-04)
Technology Description:
A novel strategy has been invented for designing high-performance hydroxide (OH-) exchange
membranes. Hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cells (HEMFCs) have the potential to become truly
affordable and viable power sources because of their ability to work with non-precious metal catalysts
and inexpensive hydrocarbon membranes. High hydroxide conductivity and low water uptake are
required simultaneously for high-performance hydroxide exchange membranes (HEMs). However, these
two parameters are heavily correlated: high water uptake is required to achieve high hydroxide
conductivity, but it usually lowers the morphological stability. This invention provides a design to
efficiently tune the relation between hydroxide conductivity and water uptake.
Fig. Stringing cation design for hydroxide exchange membranes
Benefits:
 Low water uptake and high hydroxide conductivity for Hydroxide Exchange Membranes
 Excellent temperature-resistance
 Wide applications including fuel cell membranes, electrolyzers, ion-exchangers, electrodialysis, and
redox flow batteries
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
• Published U.S. (No. 2014-0107237)
10
Novel Probes with Enhanced Specificity and Sensitivity in
Magnetic Imaging Applications (NMR, MRS,MRI)
(UD13-15)
Technology Description:
Development of new probes to detect specific molecular events associated with disease would
substantially increase the information content of MRI. 19F imaging has enormous potential because of its
specificity (high signal to noise due to the absence of fluorine in vivo, its high sensitivity compared
to proton imaging, and its application using commercial proton magnetic resonance instruments).
The potential of 19F magnetic imaging in medicine is currently substantially limited by a need to
achieve increased sensitivity for applications. An ideal approach to enhance specificity and
sensitivity of 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopy would involve the incorporation of an intense
fluorine signal into native ligands in a manner that is minimally disruptive of structure.
This invention incorporates perfluoro-tert-butyl groups, specifically perfluoro-tert-butyl hydroxyproline,
into peptides as novel amino acids. Perfluoro-tert-butyl groups have 9 equivalent fluorines, and thus
have a 9-fold increase in signal-to-noise over single fluorines. At least as importantly, perfluoro-tertbutyl groups are sharp singlets by NMR, further increasing signal-to-noise and operational simplicity,
meaning that most existing proton-based instrumentation can be readily adjusted to detect peptides
containing perfluoro-tert-butyl groups. Because of its high signal-to-noise ratio and the ability to be
incorporated within peptides and proteins, perfluoro-tert-butyl hydroxyproline has broad
potential applications in magnetic imaging (NMR, MRS, MRI), both in vitro and in vivo. Tert-butyl
groups also have broad importance in medicinal chemistry due to their hydrophobicity and
symmetry, leading to enhanced binding to targets.
Fig. Full NMR spectrum of peptide
Ac-TYP(4R-OC(CF3)3)N-NH2.
Benefits:




Enhanced specificity and sensitivity in magnetic imaging (NMR, MRS, MRI)
High signal-to-noise ratio for clearer and more precise outputs
Hydrophobicity and symmetry of groups enhance binding to target molecules
High sensitivity and affinity for improved biomarker detection
Patent Status:
This technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for licensing
opportunities.
11
Reduction of Lipase Activity in Product Formulation
(UD13-21)
Technology Description:
Downstream processing of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has evolved to allow the specific process for a
new product to be developed largely by empirical specialization of a platform process that enables
removal of impurities of different kinds. A more complete characterization of impurities and the product
itself would provide insights into the rational design of efficient downstream processes. This work
identifies and characterizes host cell protein (HCP) product-associated impurities, i.e., HCP species carried
through the downstream processes via direct interactions with the mAb. Interactions between HCP and
mAbs are characterized using cross-interaction chromatography under solution conditions typical of
those used in downstream processing. The interacting species are then identified by two-dimensional gel
electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. This methodology has been applied to identify productassociated impurities in one particular purification step, namely protein A affinity chromatography, for
four therapeutic mAbs as well as the Fab and Fc domains of one of these mAbs. The results show both
the differences in HCP-mAb interactions among different mAbs, and the relative importance of product
association compared to co-elution in protein A affinity chromatography.
Fig. HCP content in protein A product fraction for
purification of null CHO supernatant compared to
purification of null CHO supernatant spiked with
three different mAbs (A-C).
Benefits:
 Reduced breakdown of stabilizing polymers
 Potential for improvement of drug delivery systems
Patent Status:
The technologies are patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
12
Gold Nanorod/Polymer Nanocomposite Based
Sensors/Detectors
(UD13-23)
Technology Description:
A novel nanocomposite fibrous mesh composed of gold nanorods (AuNRs) and polycaprolatone (PCL)
electrospun fibers has been fabricated via polyelectolyte decoration. The use of polyelectrolyte layer-bylayer desposition to “attach” to the AuNRs to the electrospun polymer mesh allows the density of NRs to
be controlled. Using a chemically functionalized “bridging” molecule enables the capture of “target”
heavy metal ions. The use of an amplification mechanism with Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering
(SERS) to detect trace amounts of captured or reacted species are attached to the AuNRs via the
“bridging” molecules.
Fig. Flow chart showing the fabrication of the AuNR/PCL nanocomposite fiber based
sensors for heavy metal ion detection.
Benefits:
 More reliable and uniform gold nanorod sensor which minimizes detection variations
 Permits quantitative analysis by establishing a calibration curve (relating SERS signal intensity to heavy
metal ion concentration)
 Identification of toxic substances in the environment for their remediation
Patent Status:
The technologies are patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
13
Bio-Based Block CoPolymers Derived from Lignin and Plant Oils
(UD13-25)
Technology Description:
The new diblock and triblock materials are comprised entirely of bio-based materials, primarily Lignin and
Fatty Acids. These copolymers can be made into a range of materials with varying thermal and mechanical
properties.
Unlike current alternatives, these novel bio-based block copolymers have economic and environmental
advances that make them far more attractive alternatives to petroleum-based materials.
The RAFT synthetic method used to produce the copolymers is more green, requires less energy, requires
less catalyst, and is ultimately more sustainable.
Value Proposition:
The objective of this invention is to make better copolymers in such a way that they become compositionally
different and more commercially viable than pre-existing polymers.
U.S. demand for biomaterials is growing at 20% annually.
Benefits:

100% bio-based, non-toxic, and in good standing
with EPA standards.

Reduce the toxicity and carbon footprint

Sustainable

Derived from bio-renewable waste

Desirable physical and chemical properties
Patent Status:
The technologies are patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
Licensing opportunities.
14
Energy Storage and Return Orthosis (“ESRO”): A Walking Aid for
Physical Therapy
(UD13-27)
Technology Description:
Desire for walking aids for physical therapy and military personnel use is growing and becoming in
modern society and this invention has the potential to greatly impact both of these industries. The
composite device is used to store energy through deformation during the walking gait cycle and return
this energy to the walker during forward motion. The device is designed as a lightweight compact single
piece structure that is placed within the sole of a shoe or boot. The device has some novel features not
seen in any existing orthotic structure that includes a heel spring with a stable upper plateau and a
forefoot plateau with a compliant bend region that provides minimal bending resistance to the gait cycle
while storing energy.
The primary function of this device is to store and return energy to the walked so as to improve walker
performance, reduce fatigue and lower the potential for injury. As a person walks they expend energy
through the gait cycle. This device is intended to store some of this energy and return or ‘spring back’ this
energy in the form of additional forward motion. This device provides elastic recovery in both the vertical
and forward direction thus improving walker performance. This device is designed to be inserted in
combat boots to improve soldier performance, provide comfort during walking and lower the potential
for sharp object injury.
Benefits:





Reduces the energy needs for vertical and forward motion in footwear
Holds the potential for improved soldier performance
Protects against sharp object injuries during walking or running
Current boot and sneaker designs rely on foam or air cushioning
These archaic designs do not provide forward motion during walking
Patent Status:
The technologies are patent pending with fully preserved U.S. patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
15
Clay-Based Shear Thickening Fluid Formation and Aqueous
Method of Intercalation Into Textiles
(UD14-08)
Technology Description:
Woven textiles impregnated with shear thickening fluid have been shown to have applications as flexible,
multi-threat body armor capable of stopping ballistic and stab threats. Previous STF formulations have
typically used silica nanoparticles in either poly(ethylene glycol) or phenyl trimethicone carrier fluids.
Previously tested silica particles include KE-P50 450nm silica particles from Nippon Shokubai, Japan and
Nan-o-sil ASD silica powder from Energy Strategy Associates, Old Chatham, NY, USA. STF composites
made using the monodisperse KE-P50 particles show good multi-threat performance, but the particles
are expensive and sourced from Japan. STFs made from the Nan-o-sil silica are cheaper, but the
polydisperse particles must be mixed and broken down to get good STF performance.
This technology uses a kaolin clay in propylene glycol shear thickening fluid (STF) formulation as a
replacement for silica and poly(ethylene glycol) STF in advanced multi-threat body armor. The
components of the kaolin/PG STF formulation were selected to be low-cost, non-toxic and water
processible. Woven Twaron style 1011 was intercalated with a 64wt% kaolin in propylene glycol STF at
various STF to water dilution ratios, resulting in STF gains of 5wt%, 11 wt% and 18wt%. Ten layer targets
of untreated and kaolin STF treated TW1011 were drop tower tested using the NIJ spike and L2E2 impact
conditions. The 5wt% and 18wt% samples completely stopped 5 out of 5 spike impacts. The 11wt%
sample completely stopped 4 of 5 impacts and had a partial penetration of 1 witness paper layer in the
remaining test. For comparison, the untreated TW1011 was fully penetrated in 3 of 3 tests. The testing
of this technology suggests that the kaolin-based STF is a potential replacement for the silica-based STFs.
Fig. Demonstration of impact on material treated with
STF (left) and untreated (right).
Benefits:



Low-cost
Non-toxic
Stable when diluted in water for aqueous intercalation processing
Patent Status:
The technologies are patent pending with fully preserved U.S and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
16
Nanoporous Metal/Alloy Electrodes as Highly Selective and
Efficient Carbon Dioxide Reduction Catalyst
(UD14-12)
Technology Description:
Converting CO2 to useful chemicals in a selective and efficient manner remains a major challenge in
renewable and sustainable energy research. Many transition and precious metals and metals alloys are
interesting as CO2 reduction electrocatalysts due to the fact that they are able to convert CO2 to CO and
further reduced products such as hydrocarbons selectively at room temperature in an electrochemical cell.
Traditional polycrystalline metal/alloy electrocatalyst on the other hand, require a relatively large
overpotential. This technology is a nanoporous silver electrocatalyst that is able to electrochemically reduce
CO2 to CO with about a 92% selectivity at a rate of over 3000 times higher than its polycrystalline
counterpart under a moderate overpotential of less than 0.50 V. Such an exceptionally high activity is a
result of a large electrochemical surface area and intrinsically high activities compared to polycrystalline
silver. The method is able to be adapted to other metals and alloys.
The selective conversion of CO2 to carbon monoxide, formic acid, methanol, and other hydrocarbons is a
very promising route for clean energy. The synthesis of nanocrystalline metals and metal alloys as
electrodes can be useful for converting CO2 at much higher rates than traditional polycrystalline metals in
an electrochemical cell. The conversion of CO2 to hydrocarbons and liquid fuels could be easily integrated
into the current energy infrastructure. Other useful products such as CO be used as feedstock in the
Fischer-Tropsch process, a well-known and well-characterized process that has been used in industry to
produce chemicals and synthetic fuels from syngas (CO + H2) for many decades.
Fig. Schematic of carbon
dioxide reduction application
in an electrochemical cell.
Benefits:


Reduction of carbon
dioxide to useful chemical
species such as carbon
monoxide, formic acid,
methane, and methanol
Transition to clean energy
through decreases in
emissions
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S and
worldwide patent rights available for licensing opportunities.
17
Non-Precious Metal Electrocatalyst with High Activity for
Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction in Alkaline Electrolytes
(UD14-13)
Technology Description:
Fig. Spectra of hydrogen desorption for various monoand multi-metallic surfaces. The multi-metallic surface
with the mildest desorption at the highest temperature
is CoNiMo, indicating its high HOR activity levels.
Low-temperature hydrogen proton-exchange membrane fuel
cells (PEMFCs) with high power density have been developed as
an efficient and environmentally friendly energy conversion
device for a future clean and sustainable energy system.
However, the commercialization of PEMFCs has long been
hampered by the lack of a highly efficient and cost-effective
oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst. At present, the best
ORR catalyst for PEMFCs is Pt, which, even at its current
unacceptably high loading, still has a cell voltage loss of 300 mV
to 400 mV under typical operation conditions. The greatest
challenge for the development of an inexpensive ORR catalyst is
that most non-precious metals and alloys are unstable in acid
and thus face long term durability issues in PEMFCs. Recently,
several exciting non-precious metal ORR catalysts have been
shown to have activity comparable to that of Pt, but their long
term durability in acid remains to be proven. As an alternative to
PEMFCs, liquid alkaline or alkaline membrane fuel cells
(AFCs/AMFCs) are attractive because non-precious metals and
alloys are much more stable in base than in acid. Non-precious
metal ORR catalysts with an activity similar to that of Pt have
been reported in base including Fe-based macrocyles, nitrogendoped carbon nanotube/nanoparticle composite and Perovskite
oxides. However, a serious concern on the anode side, the
hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), arises when switching from
an acidic to alkaline medium.
This technology is a ternary metallic CoNiMo catalyst
electrochemically deposited on a polycrystalline gold (Au) disk
electrode using pulse voltammetry and characterized for HOR
activity with temperature-controlled rotating disk electrode
measurements in potassium hydroxide (KOH). The catalyst
Benefits:
exhibits the highest HOR activity in an alkaline electrolyte among

Reduction in cost of ORR catalysts
all non-precious metal catalysts. At a sufficient loading, the

Improved hydrogen oxidation reduction (HOR) CoNiMo catalyst is expected to outperform Pt and thus provide a
promising low-cost pathway for alkaline or alkaline membrane
activity, particularly in alkaline media
fuel cells. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and H2temperature programmed desorption (TPD) experiments show
that CoNiMo has a hydrogen binding energy (HBE) that is
significantly weaker than Ni and similar to Pt, indicating that the
formation of multi-metallic bonds modifies the binding of
Patent Status:
hydrogen and may have led to the enhanced HOR activity.
The technology is patent pending with fully
preserved U.S and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
18
Sludge, Slurry, and Biosolids Dewatering and Drying With a
Reusable Breathable Membrane Process
(UD14-19)
Technology Description:
This invention was originally developed to improve the operation of latrines and outhouses in third world countries.
However, it has recently been shown to be usable as an advanced treatment process in wastewater treatment plants.
Sludge, or biosolids, management is highly problematic in many areas worldwide, particularly where land disposal of
sludges is limited due to population or environmental pressures or where sludge incineration is practiced but with
high energy costs. Although the process has been demonstrated for wastewater sludge, it will be useful for other
types of slurries, residuals, biosolids, and any other combination of water with other materials where it is desired to
dewater or dry the material.
The process may be used in these contexts to provide economic or environmental advantages over existing
technologies, such as mechanical dewatering. In one configuration, a sludge is enclosed in the breathable membrane
with heat applied within by either blowing warm air or applying a heated manifold. This heat may be furnished as
waste heat from another process like a sludge incinerator. The heat increases the vapor pressure of water within the
sludge, speeding its diffusion through the sludge and then the membrane, thus decreasing the water content of the
sludge until it is dried to the desired extent. The water escaping through the membrane may be recaptured if desired
by condensation, providing water of high purity. The dried sludge may then be incinerated, composted, pelletized, or
simply transported for land application, all of these being at lower expense because much of the sludge mass has
been removed as water. Moreover, the membrane, due to its hydrophobic properties, is not clogged or otherwise
affected by the process, allowing it to be reused many times.
The process of water removal is driven by a difference in water vapor pressure rather than directly by a temperature
difference. Thus, the transport of water from the sludge through the membrane could also be driven by other means.
One embodiment would be simply to provide unsaturated air or any other gas opposite the sludge so that the vapor
pressure of water is lower than in the sludge on the other side of the membrane. In this case, the process is dissimilar
from air drying of sludge because the membrane allows water to depart while preventing the escape of dust, aerosols,
pathogens, and odorants that make air drying an undesirable process.
Fig. Schematic of membrane
process for mass reduction of
sludge by water removal.
Benefits:




Reduction of sludge mass
Application of heat rather than pressure to promote utilization of waste heat
Decreased cost due to elimination of need for flocculant polymer
Water removed as few, if any, impurities
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
19
Renewable Phthalic Anhydride from Biomass-Derived Furan and
Maleic Anhydride
(UD14-20)
Technology Description:
The consumption of fossil fuels for the production of energy and materials has led to increasing levels of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and, in response, there has been an intense research effort towards the
conversion of renewable biomass feedstocks into fuels and chemicals. One important chemical
intermediate that could be produced from biomass is phthalic anhydride. Phthalic anhydride is used for the
manufacture of plasticizers, unsaturated polyesters, and alkyd resins. Phthalic anhydride is currently
produced from oil feedstocks by the vapor phase oxidation of o-xylene and naphthalene via the Gibbs
phthalic anhydride process. The use of renewable bio-succinic acid as an alternative to phthalic anhydride
has been suggested, but it would be preferable to produce phthalic anhydride renewably.
Phthalic anhydride can be produced renewably from furan and maleic anhydride. Industrially, furan is
produced by the decarbonylation of furfural in high yields while maleic anhydride can be obtained
renewably by the oxidation of furfural using a specific catalyst or by the oxidation of 5hydroxymethylfurfural in the liquid phase. Furan and maleic anhydride can be used to produce phthalic
anhydride in a two-step process: Diels-Alder cycloaddition of furan and maleic anhydride followed by
dehydration of the oxanobornene dicarboxylic anhydride to produce phthalic anhydride. This experimental
technology produces high yields for the Diels-Alder cycloaddition and also increases the selectivity of
phthalic anhydride during dehydration from 11% to 80% using mixed sulfonic-carboxylic anhydrides rather
than traditional methanesulfonic acid.
Fig. Route to renewable phthalic anhydride (4) from biomass-derived furan (1) and maleic anhydride
(2) with dehydration of an oxanobornene dicarboxylic anhydride (3).
Benefits:




Renewable production of plastic precursors from renewable sources
Another step in the transition to clean energy
High yields
Limited side reactions
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S and
worldwide patent rights available for licensing opportunities.
20
Efficient Water Oxidation Using Alpha-Nickel-Hydroxide As An
Electrocatalyst
(UD14-22)
Technology Description:
Electrochemical water splitting provides an attractive path to produce hydrogen fuels and to store the
electricity from renewable but intermittent sources. However, large-scale electrochemical water splitting
is greatly hindered by the sluggish anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) where O-H bond breaking and
attendant O-O bond formation are necessary. An appropriate OER catalyst can help address this
challenge by efficiently coupling multiple proton and electron transfers for evolving oxygen under low
overpotentials. Currently, the most widely used and most efficient OER catalysts are expensive and scarce
Ruthenium (Ru) and Iridium (Ir) oxides. Alternative OER catalysts based on abundant 3d metals (Iron--Fe,
Cobalt--Co, Nickel--Ni, Manganese--Mn) have been studied, but costs remain high and activity and
stability of such catalysts must be better understood.
Among 3d metal-based OER catalysts, Ni-containing materials have garnered special attention because of
their earth-abundant nature and good water oxidation potential. High OER activity has been achieved
with Ni oxides, Ni-containing mixed-metal oxides, and various Ni-containing perovskite. Surprisingly,
Ni(OH)2, a widely used positive electrode material in alkaline batteries, has not received adequate
attention in the field of water oxidation where the OER is undesirable and must be suppressed during the
battery cathode charging process.
This technology shows that α-Ni(OH)2 nanocrystals are highly active and stable OER catalysts in alkaline
electrolytes with a simple fabrication process that is simple but can be elevated. The α-Ni(OH)2
nanocrystals can generate γ-NiOOH that exhibits excellent OER activity and outstanding resistance to
structural damage at the high oxidizing potential needed to evolve oxygen in a very basic KOH electrolyte.
Moreover, the nanocrystals outperform Ruthenium oxide catalysts as well as their β counterparts.
Fig. Evidence of the integrity of α-Ni(OH)2 nanocrystals (a) as compared to Ruthenium oxides and conventional
carbon-supported Platinum catalysts (d) following 1, 100, and 500 cycles of voltammetry.
Benefits:




Resistance to structural damage
High stability
High OER activity in alkaline environments
Simple manufacturing process
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully
preserved U.S and worldwide patent rights
available for licensing opportunities.
21
Introducing Permethyl-Cobaltocenium Cation as Functional
Group for Polymer Hydroxide Exchange Membranes
(UD14-23)
Technology Description:
Polymer hydroxide (OH−) exchange membranes (HEMs) are
attractive for use in electrochemical energy conversion devices
such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and solar hydrogen generators
largely due to their intrinsic ability to work with non-preciousmetal catalysts and their better tolerance of CO2-containing
ambient air than liquid alkaline electrolytes. The key component
of an HEM is an organic cation that is covalently linked to the
polymer main chain. Thus far, organic cations based on element
nitrogen (ammonium, pyridinium, guadinium, imidazolium),
phosphorus (phosphonium), sulfur (sulfonium), or ruthenium
(bis(terpyridine)ruthenium) have been introduced, making
available many desired HEM features including improved
solubility, enhanced thermal stability, and/or increased charge
number. However, new cations, especially those with chemical
stability at high temperatures, are still desired to reduce CO2
poisoning, increase catalyst activity, and improve heat
management.
Alkali metal cations have excellent chemical stability but are very
challenging to be immobilized for HEM applications. Bearing one
unit of positive charge, the VIIIB family metal-based
bis(cyclopentadienyl) metallocenium organic satisfy the 18electron stability role and resemble alkali metal cations. Their
metallocenium hydroxides are deliquescent , and they absorb CO2
from air and can be precipitated by excessive anions, similar to
inorganic alkali bases like sodium hydroxide and potassium
hydroxide. In particular, cobaltocenium
(bis(cyclopentadienyl)cobalt(III), or (C5H5)2Co(III)+) is the most
stable metallocenium cation because of the strongest interaction
between a metal atom and two cyclopentadienyl rings.
Cobaltocenium cation has been used as anion-conducting
functional group
for anion-exchange resins and polymer electrolytes.
Compared with pristine cobaltocenium cation,
permethylcobaltocenium (PMCo, or (C5Me5)2Co(III)+) is expected
to have even higher structural stability, owing to the charge
delocalization offered by the intensive electron donation from
the ten methyl substituents. A negative shift in reductive
potential was observed for permethylcobaltocenium compared
with pristine cobaltocenium, suggesting the enhanced reductive
stability of PMCo. This technology introduces the
permethylcobaltocenium cation as an anion-conducting
functional group for polymer HEMs, and the PMCo-based HEMs
have shown very high thermal and chemical stability, promising
possible applications in durable and robust electrochemical
devices.
Fig. Chemical structure of PMCo.
Benefits:



High chemical and thermal
stability
Pertinent application to
electrochemical energy conversion
Relevant to fuel and solar cell
operations
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with
fully preserved U.S and worldwide patent
rights available for licensing opportunities.
22
Tapered Block Copolymer Electrolytes
(UD14-28)
Technology Description:
The demand for safe and efficient energy storage devices with high energy densities is increasing, and
electrochemical devices such as rechargeable lithium batteries are promising solutions in these clean and
sustainable energy storage systems. Most contemporary lithium ion batteries consisted of liquid-based
electrolytes. Though organic solvents offer improved ionic conductivity compared to solvent-free electrolytes,
liquid electrolytes are volatile at high temperatures and render thermally and electrochemically unstable. In recent
years, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) homopolymer and PEO-based block copolymers are the most attractive materials
for solid electrolytes due to their thermally and electrochemically stability and their sufficient ionic conductivities.
The ion transport in PEO-based electrolytes is assisted by segmental motion of PEO chains. However, PEO exhibits
crystalline phases below its melting temperature, which has been noted to decrease the ionic conductivity.
Therefore, comb-branched polymers with short PEO side chains that can reduce PEO crystallinity, such as
poly(oligo(oxyethylene) methacrylate) (POEM), are employed in this invention.
Block copolymers are promising materials for conducting applications due to their ability to self-assemble into
ordered nanostructures. Such microphase-separated block copolymers have ability to simultaneously control the
ionic transport and the mechanical strength in polymer electrolytes. In this invention, a tapered interface between
pure blocks is generated to decouple polymer interfacial interactions from molecular weight and chemical
constituents. Thus, tapered block copolymers can be used to create high molecular weight polymer electrolytes,
providing improved mechanical properties while retaining the similar processability as low-molecular-weight
materials. Additionally, the salt-doped tapered block copolymers exhibit comparable ionic conductivity relative to
salt-doped diblock copolymers. These results indicate that it is possible to modify the copolymer composition
profile between two blocks, manipulating the polymer interfacial interactions, while maintaining the ability for
suitable ion transport.
Benefits:



Consistency of conductive properties upon
tapering of copolymers
Self-assembly
Improved mechanical properties with higher
molecular weight
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S and
worldwide patent rights available for licensing
opportunities.
Fig. As the temperature of the sample environment
increased, the conductivities of the salt-doped
samples, both tapered and non-tapered, increased.
These consistent results indicate that the copolymer,
when salt-doped, can be modified and retain its
conductive properties.
23
Process to Make Solar Paint
(UD14-32)
Technology Description:
This technology outlines a prototype for solar paint that can be applied to any surface to make it a solar
cell. The combination of the dissolved semi-conductive polymer (P3HT) and the nanoparticle (PCBM) in a
solvent, when stirred while cooling to room temperature, forms a gel with very long crystals. The
viscosity of this mixture is similar to that of latex paint due to the long crystal formations. If this paint is
then added in the prototype detailed below, a solar cell can be made. The novelty of this technology is
the stirring process of the solution, which increases both the viscosity and the efficiency of the solar
paint. Solar paint has many possible applications such as being used by soldiers in the field, citizens in an
emergency situation, or for those in developing countries to provide power where there is none.
Fig. Illustration of the solar cell design. Saran wrap is used to encapsulate the cell.
Benefits:
• Applied to any surface and will make it a solar cell
• Increased efficiency over non-stirred solar paint
• Solvent used is non-carcinogenic
Uses/Users:
• Create solar cells on any surface
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
24
Synthetic Methylotrophy to Liquid Fuels and Chemicals
(UD14-33)
Technology Description:
This invention turns a model organism Escherichia coli into a synthetic methylotroph, which can utilize
methanol and carbon dioxide for growth and production of chemicals. Methylotrophic bacteria are
organisms able to utilize one-carbon molecules such as methanol or methane as their sole carbon energy
source for growth. The function of this invention is to enable the methylotrophic E. coli (and other
bacteria) to produce formaldehyde, which is then converted to pyruvate and acetyl-coA through a series
of enzymatic reactions. The acetyl-coA can then be used to generate useful chemicals and fuels. This
invention is a novel approach because it is a cost-efficient method for biofuel production with minimal
carbon dioxide formation.
Fig: Summarizes the invention and the novelty of the invention
Benefits:
• Cost-efficient biofuel production
• Minimal carbon dioxide formation
• E. coli methylotroph can grow aerobically or anaerobically
Uses/Users:
• Generate chemicals and fuels
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
25
Engineering Anaerobic Oxidation Of Methane For Liquid Fuel
Biosynthesis
(UD14-35)
Technology Description:
Natural Gas, one of the biggest resources in the US is a poor transportation fuel because of its inherently
low energy density. Technologies that can convert natural gas into inexpensive liquid fuels not only lessen
our dependence on imported oil but also eliminate the needs for retrofitting our existing transportation
infrastructure. Current chemical routes based on chemical conversions such as Fischer-Tropsch (FT-GTL)
are not competitive as they suffer from both high capital costs and low conversion efficiencies.
Bioconversion is a promising alternative because of the high specificity and high process energy efficiency
all under very mild conditions. Methane, a major component in natural gas, represents an ideal target for
bioconversion to liquid fuels.
This breakthrough invention describes the most efficient and economical method for anaerobic methane
oxidation and subsequent conversion to acetyl-CoA by engineering Methanosarcina barkeri Fusaro, a
methanogenic archaeon. The novel process shown in the figure below claims >80% effieciency in the
anaerobic activation of methane to acetyl-coA. Moreover, the product acetyl-CoA can be converted to
commercially valuable chemicals and fuels such as 1,3-propanediol or butanol.
Fig. Illustrates the overall process of anaerobic oxidation of methane using engineered strain of
M.Bakeri and synthesis of acetyl-CoA
Benefits:
• Generating high value chemicals or fuels by utilizing relatively cheaper substrate
• Highly efficient method for synthesis of acetyl-CoA
Uses/Users:
• Utilized in anaerobic methane oxidation and conversion to acetyl-CoA and commercially valuable fuels
such as 1,3-propanediol or butanol for the biochemical industry
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
26
Integrated Strengthening and Monitoring of Structures Using
Structural Carbon-Nanotube-Based Sensing Patches
(UD14-37)
Technology Description:
This invention simultaneously allows for the strengthening of materials and the sensing of structural
deficiencies which has not previously been possible. The carbon-nanotube infused composite contains
the structural (load-bearing) fabric that is infused with the carbon nanotubes. The sensing patch is unique
in that it has the possibility to conform to any shape and size of the structure to be rehabilitated and
offers superior flexibility and reliability. The carbon nanotubes are piezoelectric and therefore are used to
monitor structural deficiencies. This invention allows for distributed sensing, i.e. the chances of capturing
local defects are significantly increased compared to when using a quasi-point sensor. The integrated
reinforcing/sensing system has many applications in civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering as
systems age and therefore experience degradation and fatigue.
Fig. Left: Sensing principle illustrated on a simplified sketch using two electrodes. Right: photo of a single
CNT bridging a micro-crack (Source: Schumacher and Thostenson (2013)).
Benefits:
• Strengthen and stiffen the systems they are bonded to
• Conform to any shape and size of the structure
• Provide performance feedback and long-term monitoring system
• Light-weight and therefore easy to apply
Uses/Users:
• Strengthen and stiffen materials while providing feedback of structural deficiencies
• Applications in civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
27
Process and Utility of Nanostructured Fabrics
(UD14-38)
THIS TECHNOLOGY IS CURRENTLY OPTIONED EXCLUSIVELY AND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR LICENSING – PLEASE CONTACT
OUR OFFICE FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES
Technology Description:
The invention involves efficient and novel technique for producing extremely stable aqueous suspensions
of highly dispersed carbon nanotubes in a single processing step. The selective and intelligent integration
of nanomaterials by hybridizing with micron-sized textile fibers enables the unique opportunity to form
local multi-scale architectures for tailoring of both mechanical and physical properties. In particular, the
direct hybridization where the carbon nanotubes and other nanostructures fully penetrate the fiber
bundle of a textile, can be utilized as conductors integrating sensors into the fabric. The fabric may be a
non-woven, woven, knitted, braided or other similar textile assembly. The nanoscale conducting network
can be utilized as a sensor where the piezoresistive properties of the network can be exploited to sense
deformation, temperature and other external stimuli. Thus, the hybridization enables the future
integration of adaptive, sensory, active and energy storage capabilities of nanostructures within textile
materials.
Fig. SEM cross-sectional images of E-glass fabric after carbon nanotube coating and epoxy resin infusion
showing (a,b) the outer fiber surface and (c,d) the distribution of coating for interior fibers
Benefits:
• Direct hybridization with the textile fibers makes the sensor and conducting network minimally
invasive
• This process allows precise control over the purity, structure and chemical functionality of the
nanoscale precursor material
Uses/Users:
• Can be utilized for integrating sensors into textiles, and in the field of composite materials
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
28
Multimode Degradable Hydrogels For Controlled Therapeutic
Release
(UD14-40)
Technology Description:
This invention describes the use of a responsive hydrogel-based material as a carrier system for in situ
delivery of various bioactive moieties, including small molecules, biomolecules, biomacromolecules
(including, but not limited to polysaccharides, glycosaminoglycans, proteins), and cells. The novel
chemistries presented will enable finely tuned local release of cargo molecule(s) and material
constituents as a function of the in-vivo tissue environment (e.g., enzyme concentration or reducing
environment) and externally applied stimuli (e.g., light) by selective spatiotemporal hydrogel
degradation.
Fig. Release of encapsulated BSA was monitored using fluorescence spectrometry. Significant differences
in release kinetics correlate with the degradation profile of D2 hydrogel, which can be attributed to
retro and exchange reactions.
Benefits:
• Local controlled therapeutic release for increased efficacy with reduced side effects
• Ability to tune the degradation and release of cargo molecules
Uses/Users:
• Therapeutics, wound healing patches, tissue engineering scaffolds, barriers for tissue injury healing, cell
encapsulation platform, implant coatings, etc.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
29
Nanoparticle Layer Deposition
(UD14-41)
Technology Description:
This method of nanoparticle layer deposition (NPLD) is a general approach to making new materials,
structures, and thin films. This approach will bridge atomic and molecular-size structure and the efficient
design of macroscopic well-ordered objects. This approach utilizes a “click” chemistry reaction to grow
multiple layers of nanoparticles. The novelty of this method is based on depositing functionalized
nanoparticles in a layer-by-layer manner and using the functionalization to control the stability of the
covalently bonded structural elements. The monolayers of nanoparticles produced with this method are
stable in ambient conditions and the layer-by-layer growth can be achieved for the particles of several
nanometers in dimension rather than molecular fragments. This strategy can be extended to a wide
number of applications to efficiently produce films that are nanometers to microns thick and that possess
any number of desired properties.
Fig. Basic scheme of nanoparticle layer deposition (NPLD).
Benefits:
•
•
•
•
Produces stable monolayers of nanoparticles
Layers can be further modified by the next layer
Selectivity of covalent bonding produced by the coupling process
Layer-by-layer growth is controlled (doesn’t use self-assembly)
Uses/Users:
• Make new materials, structures, and thin films with any number of desired properties
• Spintronics, heterogeneous catalysis, magnetic materials, photoelectrochemical cells, etc. can use this
method
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
30
Fragmented Carbon Nanotube Macro-Films as Adhesive
Conductors for Lithium-Ion Batteries
(UD14-42)
Technology Description:
The invention describes a concept of adhesive conductors employing fragmented carbon nanotube
macro-films (FCNTs). The feasibility in application of lithium ion batteries is demonstrated by constructing
composite electrodes with a typical active material, LiMn2O4 (LMO). The adhesive FCNT conductors
provide not only a high electrical conductivity but also a strong adhesive force, functioning
simultaneously as both the conductive additives and the binder material for lithium ion batteries. Such
composite electrodes exhibit a superior high-rate and retention capabilities compared to the electrodes
using a conventional binder poly (vinyl fluoride) and conductive additive carbon black. The successful
application of FCNT in both cathode and anode materials demonstrate that the adhesive conductor is an
efficient strategy to substitute conventional binders in battery industry.
Fig. Schematic illustration of the preparation of LMO-FCNT composite electrodes by ultrasound
processing and drop casting
Benefits:
• Higher conductivity and adhesive strength than conductive polymers
• “Green” fabrication : Carbon, Water or Alcohol solution
• Simple processing and low cost facilities
Uses/Users:
• Invention can be directly applied any battery manufacturer who produces commercial Li-ion batteries.
• Fabrication using FCNT adhesive conductor could serve as a key step to be industrialized with large
facilities such as chemical vapor deposition furnace, hydrothermal autoclaves and ultrasound
workstations.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
31
LaCo5-Based Anisotropic Permanent Magnet Powder and
Method For Producing the Same
(UD14-44)
Technology Description:
LaCo5 compound is an inexpensive analog of the common SmCo5 permanent magnet material, but its
use in permanent magnets has been prevented by its high reactivity. This invention describes applying
two techniques, mechanochemical synthesis and desorption of unwanted hydrogen to prepare a novel
air-stable LaCo5 permanent magnet powder for use in permanent magnets. The mechanochemical
synthesis consists of a mechanical activation of a mixture of lanthanum oxide, cobalt, calcium and calcium
oxide followed by annealing and separating the LaCo5 powder from the byproducts of the synthesis.
Vacuum annealing is used to obtain the pure LaCo5 powder free of hydrogen. The resulting particles
exhibits a remanent magnetization of 83.8 emu/g (8.7 kG) and a coercivity of 9.6 kOe. This dramatic
improvement of the hard magnetic properties as compared to the standard milling is attributed to a
lower density of anisotropy defects at the surface of the mechanochemically synthesized particles.
Figure: (a) backscattered electron image of LaCo5 particles in CaO matrix after annealing at 900O C;
(b) secondary electron image
Benefits:
• Efficient and easy to use method of production using more abundant and less expensive raw materials.
• Exhibits high hard magnetic properties.
• Lower density of anisotropy defects at the particle surface which makes it appropriate for more
sensitive materials.
Uses:
• Can be used for a number of applications including electric motors and generators, speakers and
microphones, medicine, television, computer monitor, etc.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
32
System and Process For the Efficient Electrochemical Conversion
of Carbon Dioxide into Carbon Monoxide Using
Tin Based Electrodes
(UD14-45)
Technology Description:
This invention describes the preparation, assembly and functioning of a system for selective
electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide with high current densities and
energy efficiencies. The process is driven by using a conducting tin foil or tin film cathode in combination
with a platinized anode. This electrolytic system can be comprised of either a single or two
compartmental cell and employs an organic electrolyte based on acetonitrile with soluble ammonium
salts.
The electrolyte solution contains millimolar concentrations of an imidazolium type ionic liquid to
maximize the efficiency of the electrolysis device. Using the above system, densities for CO production
are found to be 3-10 mA/cm2, which is better than existing technologies. The faradaic efficiency for CO
formation is 70-84% and the energy efficiency for CO reduction is roughly 70%, which are superior to
existing systems that utilize inexpensive cathode materials.
Fig. Showing single and dual cell arrangement of an electrolytic system
Benefits:
• Utilizes a tin based cathode to achieve the conversion, which is a more abundant and cheaper element
when compared to bismuth and gold.
• Production driven using conventional electric and/or renewable energy such as wind or solar.
Uses/Users:
• Permits the production of carbon monoxide from atmospheric carbon dioxide or flue gas from a power
plant.
• Capable of generating carbon monoxide on demand, in small quantities, which would reduce costs
associated with safety and handling.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
33
Templating Metal Oxide Arrays with Block Copolymer Thin Films
(UD14-48)
Technology Description:
This invention describes a novel method to produce arrays of inorganic material. The method uses a
sequence of polymer thin film processing techniques: spincoat polymer film, pattern formation via
polymer annealing, immersion and metal complexation, and polymer etching (SPICE). By following the
SPICE procedure as depicted in the figure below, well-ordered arrays of a variety of inorganics can be
produced on silicon wafer substrates. While the sub-processes may be individually altered and optimized,
the SPICE procedure decouples thin film pattern formation from metal ion inclusion.
Figure: The spincoat-pattern-immerse-complex-etch (SPICE) method decouples polymer annealing from
the metal precursor gel incorporation.
Benefits:
• Polymer films with large grain sizes, narrow size dispersity, and low defect densities can be used to
template inorganic material.
• The SPICE method has been proven with a variety of inexpensive metal nitrates, coupled with
industrially produced polymers, to create arrays of metal oxides.
• It employs block copolymers that can be tuned to adjust feature size and morphology over a range of
tens to hundreds of nanometers.
• This method is amenable to numerous metal oxides (Mg, Al, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ru, Sn, Ti, Zr, or Ce)
without significant variations in the method.
Uses/Users:
• Arrays of inorganic materials have applications in a variety of commercial and industrial sectors:
catalysis, sensors, optics, magnetic storage media, and energy harvesting.
• Lithography reproducibly makes small features with tight tolerances for the semiconductor industry.
• Arrays of inorganic material can serve as lithographic masks for creating magnetic bit patterned media.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
34
Selective Production of Renewable Benzoic Acid by Tandem
Diels-Alder and Dehydration Reaction Using Novel Zeolite HfBeta
(UD14-54)
Technology Description:
The technology provides a new method and a new catalyst to manufacture benzoic acid that uses carbon
derived biomass (100%) and only green solvents. The catalyst, a highly active, newly-synthesized zeolite,
is recyclable as opposed to the existing catalysts. This technology offers a cost-competitive, green route
to benzoic acid production by tandem Diels-Alder and dehydration reactions. Benzoic acid can then be
transformed to meet many of the final chemical demands typically produced from benzene.
Benefits:
• Catalyst is recyclable
• Catalyst is highly active
• Green route to benzoic acid
Uses/Users:
• Benzoic acid can be used as an alternative to benzene in the chemical industry to make polycarbonates,
epoxy resins, phenolic resins, and Nylon 6.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
35
Bisphenol Alternatives Derived From Renewable Substituted
Phenolics and their Industrial Application
(UD14-55)
Technology Description:
Over five million metric tons of bisphenol A (BPA) are produced annually for the synthesis of plastics,
such as epoxy resins, vinyl ester resins, and polycarbonates. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor and can
cause adverse health effects at doses lower than the safety exposure limit of 50 µg/kg body weight/day.
This invention describes a process to synthesize renewable BPA alternatives and novel polymer systems
derived from substituted phenolic compounds. These BPA alternatives can be derived from renewable
resources such as those obtained from lignin and are designed to reduce endocrine disruption relative to
BPA. The substituted phenols derived from lignin via fast pyrolysis include vanillin, vanillyl alcohol,
creosol, guaiacol, and cresol.
Bisguaiacol compounds are synthesized through the reaction of vanillyl alcohol with other substituted
phenols using a solid acid catalyst in a biphasic system. The feed composition can be varied to provide
control over the production of isomers. Pure bisguaiacol components are recovered by extraction and
recrystallization from hexanes. An example of synthesizing bisguaiacol F (BGF) from vanillyl alcohol and
guaiacol is shown in the figure below.
Benefits:
•
•
•
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Cost effective alternative.
Synthesized from renewable resources such as lignin, a renewable waste stream from the paper
and pulping industry.
Reduced endocrine effects while maintaining similar thermo mechanical properties imparted by
BPA in thermoplastic and thermoset applications.
Substantially reduced environmental and human health impact.
Uses/Users:
•
BPA is used in the synthesis and manufacturing of epoxy coatings and resins, vinyl ester resins,
polycarbonates, and aromatic polyether and polyesters.
Patent Status:
The technology is patent pending with fully preserved U.S. and worldwide patent rights available for
licensing opportunities.
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For Further Information
Please Contact:
Contact Information
Denise M. Bierlein
Telephone: (302) 831-4005
Email: techtransfer@udel.edu
Mailing Address
University of Delaware
Office of Economic Innovation & Partnerships
1 Innovation Way, Suite 500
Delaware Technology Park
Newark, DE 19711