ICNF 2023 - 6th International Conference on Natural Fibers
You-Lo Hsieh
New Horizons for 1D Materials: Nanoscale to Hierarchical Structures and InnovationsBiological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, USA |
Biography
You-Lo Hsieh is a Distinguished Professor at the University of California, Davis. Professor Hsieh’s research integrates polymer chemistry with materials engineering to develop sustainable strategies for generating bio-nanomaterials and to create 1D to 3D advanced functional materials, including hierarchical and hybrid nanofibers, micro-/meso-porous fibers, thin films and coatings, and network structures such as hydrogels, aerogels, and membranes. These approaches expand soft material potentials to create platform nanomaterials and product innovations. Professor Hsieh championed sustainable materials research and interdisciplinary initiatives, promoted STEM education, sponsored students in national and international competitions as well as initiated and sponsored international exchange programs. Professor Hsieh has mentored undergraduates, graduate students, and researchers in disciplines and various programs such as chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, forensic science, fiber and polymer science, and textiles. Professionally, Professor Hsieh has served on federal grant panels, journal editorial boards, and professional organizations, such as the American Chemical Society, the Fiber Society, and international nanomaterials scientific communities as well as in leadership roles at the university.
Abstract
Biological one-dimensional (1D) materials are synthesized by living organisms to give structural integrity and/or serve specific functions and have inspired designs for advanced materials. As the lateral dimensions of fibers are reduced from tens of micrometers to nanometers, the ultra-high specific surface and surface chemistries are multiplied in magnitudes to give significantly greater material potential. Nanocellulose surface chemistries and structures dictate how they behave in liquid phases, self-assemble from drying, and interface with other matter, as well as can be engineered into products. Functionalized nano cellulose carries specific surface chemistries to further expand the design and performance of novel products. This presentation highlights targeted and streamlined approaches in reacting cellulose to be efficiently and directly disintegrated into functionalized nano cellulose to create new sustainable materials from the readily available and underutilized biomass. Advancements in biologically derived 1D nanomaterials offer renewable solutions and versatile opportunities to outcompete fossil fuel-based counterparts and to meet future advanced material needs.