This project will develop new methods of assembling, processing and manipulating nanoscale materials. By examining the mechanical bonds between rigid molecules and carbon nanotubes, this research will result in a highly purified solution of these nano-materials, thereby enabling three-dimensional nanostructuring of nanotube assemblies.
This research will impact students at several levels. Master's and undergraduate students will be involved in much of this research, which can impact their philosophies of science and their directions as teachers and researchers. Molecular models, developed in this research, will be used to assemble a "visualization toolbox" that can be brought into the high schools through the Internet. These activities can have nation-wide impact on the science and technology education of high school students.
