Chris Cornelius

Education
  • B.S., Montana State University, 1994
  • Ph. D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 2000

Chris J. Cornelius
Associate Professor
Associate Director for Research
Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science

chcornel@vt.edu

Office: 1880 Pratt Drive
Suite 2000E (MC 0493)
Phone: 540 231-6015
Fax: 540-231-0970

Research Focus

The unifying focus of my current and future research is the fundamental study of polymers, ionomers, sol-gel glasses, and the synergistic properties of hybrid organic-inorganic materials. My current materials research efforts involve the creation of materials for advancing ionomer fuel cells, water desalination, and thermally protective coatings. I also have material research interests for the development of optical materials via organically modified silicates and hybrid organic-inorganic materials. These types of optical coatings are required for thin film solar cells and organic light emitting diodes in order to provide barrier properties to oxygen and water. While these technical areas seem quite diverse, the unifying theme of my research is organic and inorganic polymers and their application is a result of my intellectual curiosity of material interactions. The following sections broadly describe my future and current research.