Professor Lei Geng of the University of Iowa is supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program in the Division of Chemistry to probe transport properties of nanoporous materials, with long-term aims of improved understanding and enhanced applications in chemistry, biology and engineering (e.g. as stationary phases in chemical separations, supports in heterogeneous catalysis, substrates for chemical sensors and biosensors, and vehicles for drug delivery). The experimental approach includes a combination of quantitative confocal fluorescence imaging and single molecule spectroscopy to investigate such properties as pore wetting, diffusion, adsorption, and desorption involving a variety of both organic-modified and unmodified nanoporous silica particles.
The work gains broader impact through participation of graduate students from underrepresented groups and high school students, and from infrastructure enhancement via enhanced availability of state-of-the-art instrumentation. It offers potential benefits to society through improved stationary phases for chemical and biochemical separations essential to pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries.
