Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The goal of this research program is to prepare metal-containing polymers and their organic analogs that possess properties useful in nanotechnology, electronics, photonics, and the cleanup of environmental contaminants. The polymers will incorporate various functional materials into their backbones and/or side chains. These functional materials will include large ring structures such as: calix[4]arenes and porphyrins, photoactive groups such as near infrared absorbing dyes, and other groups that are known to trap metal ions. The polymers that contain cyclic structures will be designed for applications in environmental decontamination. The cyclic structures possess large cavities that metal ions and small organic molecules can enter and become trapped. Photoactive polymers will be processed into films that can be used in laser applications to control and modulate laser output. Polymers that are prepared with metal chelating groups will incorporate a large number of metallic units within their structures; this will allow for their use as molecular wires for nano-applications.Our research laboratory is equipped with the necessary instruments to synthesize and characterize the newly prepared monomers and polymers. Both undergraduate and graduate students involved in this research program will acquire many skills that will contribute to the advancement of their future careers in industry or academia.