Interfacial Processes and Thermodynamics

The Interfacial Processes and Thermodynamics (IPT) program supports fundamental research in engineering areas related to:Interfacial phenomenaMass transport phenomenaMolecular thermodynamicsCurrently, emphasis is placed on molecular engineering approaches at interfaces, especially as applied to the nano-processing of soft materials. Molecules at interfaces with functional interfacial properties are of special interest and have uses in many new technologies, based on nano-fabrication. These interfacial molecules may have biomolecular functions at the micro- and nano-scale. Interfacial materials are generally formed through molecular self-directed, -templated, and/or -assembly, and they are driven primarily by thermodynamic intermolecular forces, although may be influenced by flow and electrical forces. In some cases, these interfacial processes may also be supplemented by weak chemical reactions.Complex simulations of molecular systems are often used in molecular design of interfaces, if possible, in conjunction with experimental comparisons. New theories and complex simulation approaches are supported for determining the transport and thermodynamic properties of fluids and fluid mixtures in biological and other fluids with complex molecules in the bulk phase and at interfaces, in membranes, two-phase mixtures, and in a nanoenvironment. Many of the physical systems involve polymer and surfactant molecules, as well as special biomolecules.Research is supported in the three fundamental areas that could lead to more economical and environmentally benign processing, improved water quality, and novel functional materials for sensors, in industrial, environmental, and biomedical settings. Nanotechnology plays a critical role in most of these new areas.Projects are coordinated and jointly supported with other NSF programs, both inside and outside the CBET Division. For example, the program participates strongly in all nano- and cyber-technology activities, encourages support of undergraduates, industry/university (GOALI), and international collaboration. The IPT program is also interested in developing the special materials used in developing new Biosensing Systems and Technologies. In this regard, the Interfacial Processing and Thermodynamics program and the Biosensing program may jointly support novel projects related to surface functionalization at the molecular level.The duration of unsolicited awards is generally one to three years. The average annual award size for the program is $90,000. Proposals requesting a substantially higher amount than this, without prior consultation with the Program Director, may be returned without review. Small equipment proposals up to $70,000 will also be considered and may be submitted during the annual submission window. Innovative proposals outside of these specific interest areas can be considered. However, prior to submission, it is recommended that the PI contact the Program Director to avoid the possibility of the proposal being returned without review.Additional Program Information - 1414: (e.g., Areas of Research, Research Highlights, Conferences and Workshops, Program Director Information, etc.) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------INFORMATION COMMON TO MOST CBET PROGRAMSProposals should address the novelty and/or potentially transformative nature http://www.nsf.gov/about/transformative_research/faq.jsp of the concept being proposed, compared to previous work in the field. Also, it is important to address why the proposed work is important in terms of engineering science, as well as to also project the potential impact on society and /or industry of success in the research. The novelty or potentially transformative nature of the research should be included, as a minimum, in the Project Summary of each proposal. Proposals submitted to this program are subject to the scope of the program's description and the availability of funds. Decisions about particular proposals are often very difficult to make and factors other than reviewer comments and ratings enter into the decision. Maintaining appropriate balance among subfields, the availability of other funding, the total amount of funds available to the program, and general Foundation policies and priorities are also important decision factors. Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) program proposals are strongly encouraged. Award duration is five years. The submission deadline for Engineering CAREER proposals is in July every year. Please see the following URL for more information: http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=503214Proposals for Conferences, Workshops, and Supplements: Proposals involving these activities should ideally be submitted during the regular annual proposal window. Grants for Rapid Response Research (RAPID) and EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER) are also considered when appropriate. Please note that proposals of these types must be discussed with the Program Director before submission. Further details are available in the Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG) download. Proposals received outside of the Announced Proposal Window dates will be returned without review..