This renewal grant from the Organic Dynamics Program supports the studies of Professor Weiss at Georgetown University. The research, which is aimed at developing new materials, focuses on correlating the molecular structures of guest molecules with reaction dynamics in liquid crystals, polymer films, gels, membranes, zeolites, and nanoscale cylinders. The four focal points of research are photochemical studies on 2-naphthyl acylates, dynamic emission studies on crystalline 4-alkyl-N-(4-cyanophenyl)-piperidines, studies on ALS (Aromatics Linked to Steroidal groups) gelators of organic liquids, and studies on polymerizations of columnar liquid crystals for chiral separations. In this materials-driven project, Dr. Weiss will study structures and reaction dynamics of guest molecules in constrained, complex media such as liquid crystals, polymer films, gels, membranes, zeolites, and nanoscale cylinders. This multi-faceted research employs photochemical, calorimetric, spectroscopic, and polymeric techniques to unravel factors that influence their molecular structures and reactivities. A better understanding of the factors controlling transformations in these organized molecular assemblies will result from this research that is expected to lead to new materials with specific diagnostic applications.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Chemistry (CHE)
Application #
9422560
Program Officer
George M. Rubottom
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1995-05-01
Budget End
1999-04-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1994
Total Cost
$343,000
Indirect Cost
Name
Georgetown University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Washington
State
DC
Country
United States
Zip Code
20057