POLARIZATION-SPECIFIC PHOTOCATALYSIS FOR MATERIALS CHEMISTRY
Abstract
The present proposal targets aspects of light driven chemistry with unrealized potential to create sophisticated objects that rival the structure and function of those found in nature. Light can be considered as packets of energy that come in many “shapes and sizes”, which has enabled a myriad of applications impacting our daily lives, including imaging, coatings, adhesives, microelectronics, and 3D printing. Scientists have gained extensive control over each facet of light, from its wavelength in the UV, visible, infrared and beyond (color), location of delivery with molecular precision (space), exposure times approaching one quadrillionth of a second (time), and polarization within fractions of a degree (angle). Despite this intricate control, the utility of light in the fabrication of materials predominantly relies on unpolarized and high energy UV wavelengths, limiting the compositional and architectural scope of what can be produced. Described herein are two complementary methods that leverage the intrinsic polarization of light to fabricate plastics with exceptional resolution, production efficiency, and lifelike motion. This will be accomplished by controlling the orientation of light harvesting dyes (i.e., photocatalysts) via 1) direct short-range attachment to and 2) indirect long-range cooperativity with a lightalignable molecule to impart polarization-specific reactivity. For novel organic photocatalysts, synthetic procedures, characterization, and utilization in high resolution materials production (e.g., 2D patterning and 3D printing) are described. The fundamental scientific discoveries will inform the development of next generation “smart” plastics using light as a low energy and readily available source. This will further the mission of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research by enabling the on-site production of aerospace relevant objects with unprecedented mechanical performance and stimuli-responsive behavior for advanced soft robotics, data storage, and camouflage applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 21, 2022
- Source ID
- FA95502110115XX0
Entities
People
- Zachariah A Page
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Texas at Austin