Nature uses microvascular structures as a central element of complex materials that grow, regenerate, and improve themselves and their function. Work into synthesizing microvascular materials has recently taken a step forward in the form of a new synthetic process VaSC (Vaporization of a Sacrificial Component) that enables the formation of 3D microstructures that are meters in length. I report on our recent advances in using VaSC to create three-dimensional gas exchange units modeled on the design of avian lungs. I will focus on mass transfer applications for the capture of CO2. I will also report on recent research into creating high surface area micro-structures, the synthesis of cooperative binders of CO2 and chemical reactions mediated by photo-thermal effects. Finally, I will talk about adapting microvascular structure to allow them to improve their functions through chemical remodeling.

Link to Esser-Kahn group: link

"Electron-Donating Phenothiazines for Energy Storage Applications"

Prof. Susan A. Odom

Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky

Phenothiazine derivatives have seen widespread use as stable electron-donating organic compounds with generally stable oxidized states, which makes them an attractive core for functionalization for use in electrochemical energy storage applications. With phenothiazine itself as a starting material, functionalization of the 3, 7, and 10 positions is facile, providing options to modify redox potentials and improve stability in both the neutral and singly oxidized (radical cation) states. Additionally, this ring system can be built from aryl amines and aryl bromides, allowing for the production of compounds with even more functionalization, including incorporating groups at the 1 and 9 positions and – in some cases – at every sp₂-hybridized C atom in the aromatic core. In many cases, computational studies have predicted what we have observed experimentally, and often guides our design of next-generation materials. This presentation focuses on the characterization of phenothiazine derivatives, both from experimental and computational approaches, and includes results from their incorporation into lithium-ion batteries as electrolyte additives for overcharge protection as well as studies toward using them in non-aqueous redox flow batteries as catholytes. 

This seminar is part of the 2015-16 Energy Storage Seminar Series at UK supported by NSF EPSCoR under Award No. 1355438.

"Unique Electrochemical and Optical Properties of Metal Nanoparticle Assemblies"

Prof. Francis Zamborini, University of Louisville, Department of Chemistry 

http://louisville.edu/chemistry/directory/faculty/zamborini

Thursday, November 5th, 4 pm

Room 203,  Erikson Hall (directions: http://ukcc.uky.edu/cgi-bin/dynamo?maps.391+campus+0050)

host: Prof. Doo Young Kim

This seminar is funded by NSF EPSCoR award 1355438.

Title: Arranging Molecular Building Blocks with Enhanced Control in the Real and Virtual Worlds

Abstract:The Smaldone Group at the University of Texas, Dallas is primarily interested in the design of novel organic materials using the principles of organic synthesis and self-assembly.  Specifically, our research focuses on several key areas: i) developing new methods for the synthesis of porous polymers and covalent organic frameworks for environmental applications in clean energy and pollution control, ii) the design and synthesis of novel polymers for applications in 3D printing and iii) creating games for scientific and chemical education.

http://www.utdallas.edu/chemistry/faculty/smaldone.html