2D Molecular Grids Made to Order

University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL

Investigators

Abstract

This project is aimed at exploring new ways to prepare large molecular structures having well-defined size, shape, and functionality. The specific objectives are to: (1) develop chemistry to rapidly synthesize multi-functional oligomeric building blocks, (2) prepare a series of [n]-rung ladder structures, (3) explore length-regulation strategies for controlling and limiting the growth of self-assembled nanostructures and to test the predications of vernier tessellation, and (4) synthesize two-dimensional molecular grids. The methods that will be employed in this project include advance synthetic techniques, dynamic covalent self-assembly, molecular modeling, and advance characterization techniques. With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Professor Jeffrey S. Moore, of the Department of Chemistry at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Professor Moore's research efforts revolve around the preparation of large molecular structures having well-defined size, shape, and functionality. Realization of the targeted structure will not only be a significant accomplishment in nanoscale synthesis, but will also contribute to solving important problems in materials science and biology including next-generation nanoscale electronics and information storage devices, nanofiltration membranes, scaffolds for nanobiotechnology, and grids useful for solar energy harvesting.