Exploring Macromolecular Architecture and the Control of Nanoenvironment with Polymeric Catalysts

University Of California-Berkeley, Berkeley CA

Investigators

Abstract

TECHNICAL SUMMARY: The design and synthesis of polymers with controlled architecture and functionality that can perform catalytic functions or act as transport channels is undertaken. The overall design of the macromolecules requires that fine control over both architecture and the placement of functional groups within the active macromolecules be achieved. For transport channels, dendronized macromolecules that possess a tubular shape are expected to be most appropriate in analogy to biological channels that result from the self assembly of several proteins. For catalysis, globular macromolecules based on a star architecture enable the incorporation of a catalytic core while the arms of the star may provide for site isolation in analogy with the site isolated core of catalytic enzymes. This program exploring new ways to obtain functional macromolecules with persistent structural features will make use of all the tools of modern synthetic polymer chemistry while also developing new reactions, methods of assembly, and methods of characterization. Applications of the macromolecules in catalytic processes, the sequestration or the transport of materials will also be explored in proof-of-concept studies. NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY This project is directed towards the design of novel polymeric materials that can help meet the needs of society in areas as varied as the manufacturing of novel substances, water purification, or the removal of pollutants from waste streams. Both the shape and the function of the new polymeric materials draw some inspiration from natural biological systems, for example imitating natural enzymes in the way they facilitate chemical transformations, or mimicking the natural channels that selectively transport fluids or ions in and out of cells in the human body. The project will train young scientists at the state of the art in polymer science, a field of immense impact in our daily lives through new and unique materials as varied as specialty plastics, electronic and energy materials, or therapeutic and diagnostics agents.