POWRE: New Materials Developed by Controlling Hydrogen Bond Interactions in High Fluidity Solvents

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

Investigators

Abstract

This POWRE award by the Chemistry Division will allow Dr. Susan Olesik of Ohio State University to apply her experience with supercritical and enhanced fluidity solvents in separations science to developing innovative polymer synthesis and processing systems. The precise control of intermolecular interactions, high diffusivity and low viscosities of such solvents allows the development of polymers with highly controllable mechanical and chemical properties for use as biocompatible materials, for separation of chiral pharmaceuticals, in sensors and in environmental remediation. Dr. Olesik has recently completed a sabbatical in industry where she learned synthetic and characterization procedures for polymers produced in supercritical solvents. This award will allow her to establish a new emphasis in her research and to train graduate students in the procedures she will be developing.