Faculty - Chemical and Biological Engineering
Albert Co
Contact Information
Phone:
581-2282
Email/Web:
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Education
B.S. University of the Philippines, 1972 - Ph.D. Ph.D. University of Wisconsin - Madison, 1979
Research interests
Viscoelastic Processing Flows
Either shear flow or extensional flow dominates various types of polymer processing flows. It is important that this be identified so that appropriate rheological measurements can be made to characterize the polymer melts. We are conducting numerical simulations and experimental studies of the viscoelastic flow in the drawing zone of single-layer and multi-layer film casting of different polymer melts. Here extensional flow plays a dominant role. Velocity profiles and film tensions are measured under various processing conditions. In addition, the effects of polymer rheological properties and operating conditions on flow instability (draw resonance) and edge phenomena in film casting are being investigated. Information obtained can be used to optimize the production of polymer films.
Non-Contacting Tension Measurement in Films
In the processing of films, the ability to measure film tension is essential in achieving better control of the process. Due to the molten state of polymer film or its high velocity, the measuring device must not be in contact with the film. We have developed a non-contacting air-nozzle system that can measure the instantaneous tension in a film. We are applying this system to measure film tension in polymer film processes such as film casting and film blowing.
Publications
- Canning, Kathleen and Co, Albert. Edge effects in film casting of molten polymers. Journal of Plastic Film and Sheeting. 2000 July; 16(3):188-203.
- Bian, Baigui and Co, Albert. Non-contacting measurement of molten films. Polymer Engineering and Science. 1999 May; 39(5):841-848.
- Mantar E.; Co, Albert and Genco, Joseph M. Drainage characteristics of pulp slurries under dynamic conditions. Journal of Pulp and Paper Science. 1995 Feb; 21(2):J44-J50.
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