Synthesis: We perform precise synthesis of functional polymers with special emphasis on polymerization, selective deuteration, small molecule synthesis, and ionic polymerization, as well as macromolecular characterization. We utilize the best high yielding and controlled reaction condition including the use of Schlenck lines, glass blown custom-made reactors, autosamplers, and flow chemistry reaction methods including online monitoring. In collaboration with the theory group, we are able to focus on modeling and quantum chemical calculations (atomistic to coarse-grain) to predict the best reactivities and desirable properties prior to the reaction.
- Living free radical polymerization: free radical and controlled radical (ATRP, NMP, RAFT) polymerizations (solution, emulsion, dispersions).
- Anionic, cationic, metathesis polymerization reactions, controlled ring-opening polymerization for the synthesis of well-defined polymeric materials.
- Multi-step organic reactions and metal-mediated and catalyzed reactions including synthesis of novel monomers and precursors
- Deuteration and isotope enhanced reactions (deuterated monomers and building blocks for neutron studies.
- Parr pressurized reactions and controlled (PVT) reactions under flow chemistry
- Bio-based polymers and nanocellulose
- Nanomaterials synthesis through colloidal and surface interfacial chemistries
- Polymer synthesis (Anionic, radical, cationic, and step-growth polymerizations; composite materials)
- Controlled microstructure: well-defined, narrow molecular distribution polymers and copolymers including complex polymer architectures (i.e. block, star, comb, graft and hyperbranched polymers) by anionic and cationic polymerizations.
Autoflows Laboratory (INTERSECT) is housed at CNMS. This is an AI/ML driven flow chemistry laboratory initiated with the ORNL LDRD capable of PVT control in flow chemistry and polymerization parameters with access to ORNL computing facilities for algorithm development and data storage.
