Research Interests:

Dr. Nelson’s research activities focus on polymers, particularly polymer degradation and flammability. Specific interests include new flame retardant materials, nanocomposites, combustion product toxicity, polymer aging and weathering, and coating adhesion to plastic substrates. Recent Projects Include: • High Performance Polyimide Foams: Characterization • Novel Nanocomposites: Mechanical, Thermal and Flammability Properties • Ferrocene-Based Polymers • Effect of Zinc and Zinc Compounds on the Flammability of PPO-HIPS Blends, Polystyrene and Polycarbonate • Synthesis and Properties of Siloxane-Polyurethane Block Co-Polymers