Particle Physics on the Nanometer Scale: C60 and POSS Based Hybrid Molecules

Stephen Z.D. Cheng, University of Akron, DMR 0516602

Using unique synthetic approaches (Macromolecules, 2008, 41, 515), we have functionalized nanometer sized particles, specifically fullerene (C60) and POSS, with an array of soft matter molecules. It is possible to utilize the self-assembly behavior of these hybrid

molecules to study the physical properties of the nanoparticles as well as the resultant supramolecular structures. Crystallizable polymer chains have been attached to analyze the

2D assembly of C60 on the surface of polymer single crystals (above).

TEM AFM

PEO-C60 Single Crystals

NNH

N HN

O

O

O

O

O

O

C12H25O

OC12H25OC12H25

C12H25O

C12H25O

C12H25O

C12H25O

OC12H25

OC12H25

O O

OO

O

OC12H25

OC12H25O

Other materials, such as liquid crystalline molecules (right), have

also been tethered with these particles. POSS and C60 with different inherent structure and properties can be covalently linked (left). The optical

and electronic properties from the resultant supramolecular structures

(columnar LC or double-layer crystals, respectively) are currently being

studied.

POSS-C60 Crystal Nanolayer Capacitor

Porphyrin-C60

LC Photovoltaics

EDUCATION: This grant has helped 2 students, Dr. Ryan M. Van Horn and Dr. Ming-Siao Hsiao, earn their Ph.D. degrees at the University of Akron. It has also supported 4 other students in their doctoral dissertation research. The unique combination of chemistry and physics needed for this work has helped these students obtain experience in both areas of polymer science.

OUTREACH: At the University of Akron, there are various outreach programs for area students to experience the sciences. These programs include tours of the facilities, science days, and summer teaching programs. My group has often participated in the NSF-REU summer internship program. In this program, our group provides valuable graduate research experience to undergraduates in chemistry, physics or engineering disciplines. In 2008,Mr. Brad Hauser from John Carroll University was an REU intern in our group working on polymer crystallization. This experience influenced his decision to pursue a higher degree in chemistry or polymer science.

Particle Physics on the Nanometer Scale: C60 and POSS Based Hybrid Molecules

Stephen Z.D. Cheng, University of Akron, DMR-0516602