Hi everyone! I'm new here and hope that some people could give me their opinions about my situations. :)
- My company produces silicone ink transfer pads (among other things). We currently use the condensation cure/organotin catalyst method for the pads However, we hope to switch over to another method of production that's less toxic for the workers (since the TLV of the particular organotin is 0.1ppm) and the environment (we're becoming interested in green chemistry). Other people in the company are balking at the idea of switching from condensation cure to addition cure. Perhaps you can give me your input as to which method works better, or any other less toxic ideas. Peroxide catalysts are also out because of the toxicity. Has anyone heard of using bismuth catalysts for ink transfer pads? I know it's used in the formation of some rubbers, but I can't find the mechanism anywhere and don't know if it pertains to silicone rubber anyway.
- I just graduated this past May with a BS in Chemistry, but next fall (2005) I plan to start a PhD program in polymer science. My main interest is conductive/luminescent polymers and OLEDs, though this project dealing with silicone curing is also piquing my interest. Any ideas on good graduate schools in these areas of chemistry (in New England, if possible)? I'm planning on applying to UMass Amherst but I'd like other ideas too.
Thanks!