Dr. Danny HubbardResearch endeavors focus on the synthesis and characterization of modified polyimides and their formulation ratios in composite materials. The research work involves the use of instrumental techniques, e.g., Differential Scanning Calorimetry Thermal Gravimetric Analysis, and Dynamic Thermomechanical Analysis in the characterization of these materials. Past studies have shown that polyimides are viable components in high performance polymer and polymer composite applications. Specifically, a class of polymers known as polyimides, are modified with amine based end capped functional groups and evaluated for potential use in high temperature applications. The research work involves the use of instrumental techniques, e.g., Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Thermal Gravimetric Analyses, Thermo-mechanical Analysis, and other physical characterization techniques in the analysis of polyimides. Research students are involved in monomer/ polymer synthesis, optical microscopy and thermo-mechanical techniques. Dr. Danny Hubbard’s expertise is in the areas of structure-property relationships, optical and thermal measurement techniques. He has been responsible for the development of a variety of semi-crystalline and crystalline structures that find use in high temperature applications. He has several collaborators in these areas and continues to retain and pursue his interests, with the aid of extramural grants obtained from funding agencies, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Currently, Dr. Danny Hubbard is concentrating his research efforts on nanocomposites, with emphasis on carbon nanotube dispersed polymer composites, and biodegradable polymers. Undergraduate students are actively involved in synthesis, thermal mechanical studies, and characterization of monomers and polymers.