Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Supramolecular chemistry, the subject of the 1987 Nobel Prize in Chemistry (and the basis of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry), is a flourishing field that exploits weak intermolecular interactionsto create complex structures from simpler building blocks. This is Nature's way: building complexity from the bottom up. Using supramolecular approaches, chemists are building molecular knots, transistors, and sensors, to name only a few of the exciting developments. In our research program, we use supramolecular templating to construct complex materials. For example, using cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) as templates, we have been able to make photonic hydrogels that respond to stimuli, chiral porous silica that can be used to separate enantiomers, and photonic plastics that can be imprinted with photonic patterns. During our most recent NSERC Discovery Grant period, we have made several other significant contributions in the field of supramolecular chemistry and materials, including development of campestarenes, a class of molecules with 5-fold symmetry; discovery of hexagonal nanotubular assemblies from triptycene derivatives using OH---Br bonding; and a detailed understanding of tautomerization in imines formed from triformylphloroglucinol. In this proposal, we build on our past accomplishments to investigate a new concept, using rigid, shape-persistent macrocycles as templates to construct polymetallic complexes and nanofibres. We will investigate the synthesis and characterization of rigid macrocycles and cleft-shaped molecules. These will be functionalized to form superligands that are designed to host polymetallic complexes. The coordination chemistry, aggregation, and molecular dynamics of the new organic molecules will be investigated. The long term goal is to use the macrocycles as templates for constructing metal and metal oxide nanowires that may become part of future computer technology. As well, we hope that the molecular complexes will serve as mimics for metalloenzymes, offering unique electronic, optical, magnetic, and catalyticproperties that we can explore. This Discovery grant will train students at all levels: graduate, undergraduate, and post-doctorate. HQP involved in the proposed work will receive world-class training in a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment that includes opportunities to interact with industry and take part in professional development workshops and opportunities. In addition to receiving hands-on training on extensive equipment available, trainees will work on challenging projects that stimulate their curiosity and acumen in science, best preparing them for their careers.