Nanoscale Research
Capillary Action Observed in Copper Nanowire Samples
An effort is being made to quantify the capillary action and permeability observed in copper nanowires. These properties are also being compared to the observed properties of the nanowires, such as distance between the wires, the diameter of the wires, and the length of the wires. It is hoped that a correlation will be found and the capillary action of the wires maximized. In addition, an apparatus is being developed to more accurately and consistently measure the capillary action observed.
Template Synthesis of Catalytic Nanoparticles
Microemulsions are homogeneous mixtures of water, oil and a surfactant. They may also contain a co-surfactant. In the nanoscale size regime, microemulsions are heterogeneous, featuring hydrophobic and hydrophilic compartments. This study will examine the use of the heterogenous nanostructures in microemulsions as templates for synthesis of high surface area Au, Ag and Pd nanoparticles. These nanomaterials have potential applications in fuel cell electrodes. Techniques to be used include UV-Vis spectroscopy and, optical, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy (SEM and AFM).
Remediation of Chromium Pollution Using Nanotechnology
Chromium (VI), typically in the form of chromate ion (CrO4^2-), is a pollutant that may be found in surface and ground water. It is a strong oxidant. Due to structural similarity with sulfate ion (SO42-), chromate ions readily cross the cell membrane and can initiate oxidative cell damage. The reduction of Cr(VI) to the less harmful Cr(III) species by zero valent iron nanoparticles will be investigated. Techniques to be used include UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy (SEM and AFM). A laboratory classroom experiment on the detection and remediation of chromium in the environment will also be developed.
Chemical Investigation of Superhydrophobic Nanoparticles
The study is an investigation of the properties of superhydrophobic nanoparticles and their influence on the surface characteristics of bulk materials. It is based on the premise that many physical and chemical properties of materials can be vastly influenced by changes in the characteristics of a layer that extends only a few angstroms, nanometers or microns below the surface. This opens possible routes to fabrication of materials with desired functionality at low cost. Techniques to be used include microscopy, FTIR, and contact angle measurements. This research is a collaborative effort with Ross Technologies Inc.