NANOSCALE: Nanostructured Biocomposites for Use as Novel Films and Coatings

Ohio State University Research Foundation -Do Not Use, Columbus OH

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract Proposal number: CTS-9986488 Proposal type: Response to NSF 99-109, Exploratory Research on Biosystems at the Nanoscale Principal investigator: James F. Rathman Affiliation: Ohio State NANOSCALE: Nanostructured Biocomposites for Use as Novel Films and Coatings This exploratory project investigates the fabrication and applications of nanostructured composite films containing both organic and inorganic components, specifically films consisting of a silica matrix and containing collagen and fibronectin. The films are synthesized at a liquid-liquid interface, and surfactants are used to promote self-assembly and nanostructures with useful properties. Three applications of the new types of films will be tested. Nanoporous silica-collagen films are expected to have good thermal stability and mechanical strength. They will be tested as protective coatings to prevent moisture damage of organic electroluminescent display devices. Fibronectin modification of collagen-silica composites will be tested as a source of stable molecular sieves, and the pore sizes will be controlled to provide membranes that can filter viruses from bioprocess streams. Also, the ability of fibronectin tethers will be exploited in microcarriers for cell cultures containing anchorage-dependent cells. Success in achieving novel properties with these unique composites can lead to a wide variety of applications.