Unique laser-based measurements in integrated optical structures will be used by Professor Bohn of the University of Illinois-Urbana to monitor the structure of monomolecular thin film assemblies, in this project supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry program. The goal of this work is to provide a better description of the orientational distribution of molecular assemblies prepared by Langmuir-Blodgett deposition or by self-assembly methods. Three experimental approaches will be developed. First, fluorescence anisotropy and linear dichroism measurements will be applied to static monolayers at high sensitivity. Second, the order of the assembly will be characterized under dc electric field perturbation. Third, the dynamic response of the thin layer will be examined by monitoring optical response to variable frequency electric field perturbations. The waveguide optical probe methods developed in this project provide a unique structural capability for characterizing order in these important molecular assemblies. %%% Determination of the degree of order in monomolecular thin films is the goal of this research project supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry program. A detailed understanding of the structure of these thin film materials is crucial to the design of improved bioactive sensors and trace separation methods, and may impact the development of improved corrosion coatings.
