Macromolecular Nanomaterials
The Macromolecular Nanomaterials group's mission is "To understand and design novel macromolecular and deuterated nanomaterials using cutting-edge synthesis and characterization methods."
There is a lot of interest in investigating nanophase behavior in soft-matter. This requires exploration of new synthetic routes and controlled macromolecular microstructures. The group is focused on designing and developing novel macromolecules and deuterated nanomaterials driven by computation and AI/ML strategies: using cutting-edge synthesis methods and characterization techniques. Utilizing computational methods from atomistic to coarse grain methods, we can report on multi-phase behavior and complex fluids to both guide the synthesis and understand phenomena. A primary mission is to support neutron studies with deuterated probes and macromolecules.
Advanced macromolecular characterization methods include NMR, MALDI, and solution characterization with multi-detector GPC and light scattering. Solid-state and thermo-mechanical characterization utilizing DSC, TGA, DMA, rheology and dielectric spectroscopy complements X-ray scattering and TEM for investigating macromolecular phase separation and morphologies. We are developing continuous flow reactions and polymerization methods driven by AI/ML work flows and in-operando reaction monitoring.