The Fundamentals of Coatings:
Abbreviations and Acronyms in the World of Polymers and Coatings
Abstract Coming
Polymers Utilized in Coatings
Abstract Coming

The Science of Formulating: 
Coatings Characterization
Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, Infrared Spectroscopy, Confocal Raman Microscopy

Biography
Michael received his B.S. in polymer science from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1992. Michael has organized and completed numerous industrial sponsored research projects and continues to develop and formulation materials for industrial applications. His research activities include failure analysis, waterborne, solvent based, and powder coatings formulation, processing, application, and curing. Research projects include the development of waterborne water repellents, the formulation and processing of thermoplastic powder coatings for high velocity thermal spray, and development of chrome (VI) free aircraft primers. Michael has over thirty one years’ experience in microscopy techniques including light microscopy, digital microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray (ESEM/EDS) analysis. Other analytical skills include DSC, TGA, DMA, FTIR/FTIR-Microscopy, GPC, GC/MS, LC/MS, confocal scanning laser microscopy, and mechanical testing. Michael currently manages several research efforts funded through the Department of Defense and is focused on understanding how materials best protect and prevent the premature loss of assets due to natural weathering exposure.


Address: 118 College Dr. Box 5217, Hattiesburg, MS 39406
Phone: 601-266-5618
Welcome to the Thames-Rawlins Research Group
Here at TRRG we are involved in a variety of polymer related research interests including:
environmentally responsible monomer and polymer synthesis from biobased derivatives and its incorporation into coatings and adhesives for wood composites, develop zero-VOC flame-retardant coatings, utilizing enzymes to develop functional films, developing novel copolymers with morphological control for photovoltaic cells, formulation and development of high-solids and waterborne coatings and cast elastomers, investigating mechanisms of corrosion prevention and role of interfacial adhesion in corrosion; develop methods to facilitate early detection of corrosion, understanding mechanisms of material distortion and failure with respect to molecular architecture and morphology in composites, synthesizing and evaluating healing agents for epoxy matrix composites, developing ultra-high performance carbon fiber composites. The TRRG also maintains a large array of analytical and mechanical testing equipment for the characterization of polymers and forensic and failure analysis of polymer related systems. Equipment capabilities include DSC, TGA, TMA, DMA, GPC, GC/MS, LC/MS, FTIR, NIR, confocal Raman microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, digital microscopy, and material testing systems.
Graduate and undergraduate students are provided opportunities for industrial and international internships. The Thames-Rawlins Research Group supports the coatings industry via problem solving, testing, evaluation, formulations, short courses, long- or short-term contract research and development, and technology reduction-to practice.