The Analytical and Surface Chemistry (ASC) program of the Division of Chemistry will support the research program of Prof. Reginald Penner of the University of California at Irvine. Prof. Penner and his students will investigate the nechanism responsible for metal nanowire-based molecular detection. The goal of the study is to test for the existence of Chemically Responsive Interparticle Boundaries (CRIBs: metal oxide layers located at grain boundaries within polycrystalline nanowires), map their location within nanowires, and understand their function. Success of the project would lead to the development of new and improved nanowire sensors that could be used in many applications related to diagnostic medicine, defense and homeland security. The research of Prof. Penner will provide excellent training opportunities for students and postdoctoral research associates in a highly multidisciplinary area at the forefront of scientific research.
