Applications in Supramolecular Chemistry: Polymer-based Anion Recognition and Polymorph Modification
Open Access
Author:
Geibel, Tanner
Graduate Program:
Chemistry
Degree:
Master of Science
Document Type:
Master Thesis
Date of Defense:
June 10, 2020
Committee Members:
Elizabeth A Elacqua, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor Paul S Cremer, Committee Member Michael Anthony Hickner, Committee Member Robert John Hickey, III, Committee Member Philip C Bevilacqua, Program Head/Chair
The design and modification of supramolecular interactions and self-assembly in
synthetic polymers and biopolymers is described. Many synthetic routes were attempted to
make a calix[4]pyrrole-chromophore conjugate that was capable of polymer/monomer
attachment. A polymer was synthesized bearing calix[4]pyrrole-BODIPY conjugate side
chains, which was used for fluoride recognition and capture, affording a colorimetric and
fluorometric response. Chemical modifications to cellulose’s hydrogen bonding structure
with diamines were investigated to convert the natural polymer to different polymorphs.
Attempts were made at utilizing this process to align cellulose in an external magnetic and
electric field. Current work is being conducted to better understand the kinetics of the
conversion between cellulose polymorphs.
