Research Projects
Funding:
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NSF-DMR 2137672
P20AP00319
1R15HL168693-01
Photo-actuatable Hybrid Porous Systems
A main project area within our group looks at porous molecular sponges with photo-responsive shape change components for efficient uptake and release of fluids and gases. This project also includes the development of remote device powering systems through RF energy transfer and conversion.
In the News:https://tinyurl.com/mrybytna
Light Controlled Silicone Synthesis
The second major project in our group focuses on the development of the light driven synthesis of silicon based materials such as sequence defined silicones and 3D printing methodologies with direct write Si-O bond formation. These techniques rely on photoactive alkoxysilanes.
Programmed Degradation and Recycling of Silicones
This project focuses on the development of photosensitizers/photoreleasable fluorides for the light activated degradation of silicon containing materials. It is a collaboration project with Alexis Ostrowski at BGSU.
Siloxane Coatings for Monument Preservation
This project focuses on the development of multi-cure hybrids for the protection of monuments and the recyclability of those coatings.
In the News: https://tinyurl.com/yttrx6d4
Micro/nanoplastics separation technologies from soil
This project focuses on the development separation and degradation methods of micro/nanoplastics from soils, especially field amendments such as biosolids and dredge materials. This is a collaboration project with Angelica Vazquez-Ortega at BGSU.
Silsesquioxane polymer photophysics and energy transfer
This project focuses developing a fundamental understanding of energy transfer in silsesquioxane based polymeric materials. In collaboration with Richard Laine University of Michigan.
Photochemical Mediated Self-Healing and Assembly of Hybrid Macromolecules.
In our group we combine the aspects of light and catalyst driven dynamic covalent chemistries in the development of self-healing hybrid (organo-silicon) based polymeric materials. Our research will look at the incorporation and development of reversible photo-responsive cross-linkers (i.e. HABI) embedded covalently into the silicone matrix. These materials have potential uses in light driven regeneration of thin film coatings, fatigue based stress sensors useful for many military applications in soldier protection, as well as self-healability for long lasting materials in high tech and medical applications, particularly use in locations not easily accessible for replacement such as at the bottom of the sea, in space and within the body.
Molecular Separation Techniques Based on Hybrid Polymeric Materials.
The second project area in our group looks at high performance separation methods of difficult to separate small molecules such as chiral drugs and small gas molecules such as CO2. Our vision looks to using organic functionalized silsesquioxane based network polymers made by fluoride catalysis to achieve these goals. This research direction has long standing precedent both in reducing harmful side effects by separating active and inactive/toxic enantiomers in active pharmaceutical ingredients needed to develop the next generation and lower the price of future drugs; as well as the tunability to contribute to lowering atmospheric green house gas concentrations.
Silsesquioxane/Siloxane Hybrid NO Release Materials.
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Medical devices are useful tools that have served to prevent and cure illnesses; however, they often lead to inadvertent health effects due to harboring and promoting growth of bacteria/viruses, and their low compatibility with components within the body. We present new methods towards a set of biocompatible silicon-based materials for medical devices such as catheters that enable long-term and controlled release nitric oxide as an anti-infection and anti-blood clotting agent. This research will establish an enhanced route to improve the health outcomes of ICU hospital patients by reducing hospital aquired infections and blood clotting that can lead to disability, death, and/or longer recovery times from primary afflictions. Funded by NIH
Contract Research for Industry
We also conduct contract research predominately in the development and testing of hybrid materials. If you have a project idea please do not hesitate to contact us. BGSU contract indirect rate is only 20% so more of your investment goes toward development. We have experience working with multiple companies on many types of projects. Contact: Mark Fox foxmw@bgsu.edu