2005
Institute
of Technology
Summer
Undergraduate Research Expo
Thursday, August 11, 2005
4-6:30 p.m.
Memorial Hall, McNamara Alumni Center
University of Minnesota
2005
Institute
of Technology
Summer
Undergraduate Research Expo
Poster Presentations
Listed by
presenting author and sponsoring program.
1. Hanrahan, Benedict, Joel Bell,
Chris Macosko
Image
Analysis of Polymer Samples
Home Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor: Chemical Engineering and
Materials Science
Abstract: Two
immiscible homopolymers can be blended to create materials with property
combinations not normally available in a single homopolymer. The blends can have property
combinations superior to individual components in polymer blends. It must be possible to detect the
morphology of polymer blends, especially cocontinuous blends, which is the
mutual interpenetration of two polymers. The polymer blend sample is studied by
using X-ray computerized tomography (CT), which is an X-ray machine taking
x-ray images at different angles around the polymer blend sample. The images are processed by a computer
to create cross sectional pictures of the sample called slices. My project uses these slices and also
reconstructs them together to create 3D images, which are then analyzed with
computer programs to help study cocontinuity and trends in curvature/morphology.
2. Nagpal, Umang, Chris Macosko, Jianbin Zhang
Correlation
Between Adhesion and Functional Polymer Concentration in Block Copolymers
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
Abstract:
The adhesion between a bi layer of nylon (Zytel 330)
and polystyrene (PS) was found to increase with the concentration of poly
(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) in the PS layer. With the graft copolymers formed
and the poor solubility of nylon, it is difficult to analyze the amount of
copolymers at the interface. To better understand the relationship between
adhesion and functional polymer concentration, a model system, amine-terminal
polystyrene (PS-NH2)/anhydride-terminal poly (methyl methacrylate) PMMA-anh was
designed and the functional polymers were synthesized by atomic transfer
radical polymerization. Similar behavior between adhesion and functional
polymer concentration was found by tuning the PS-NH2 concentration in the PS
layer. After measuring the amount of block copolymers formed at the interface
for the model system with size exclusion chromatography, direct correlation
between adhesion increases with block copolymer was built.
3. Schaber, Spencer, K. B. Richter,
A. V. McCormick, L. E. Scriven, D. E. Weiss
Constructing
a Pulsed Electron Beam Apparatus
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Coating Process Fundamentals
Abstract: Continuous electron beams have been used to cure polymers
industrially for over 30 years.
Whereas earlier studies have shown that pulsing the beam can both speed
curing and lower the energy requirements, knowledge of how these effects come
about is limited, and no pulsed electron beam apparatus for research or
production is available commercially. I have assisted in the development of a
prototype 200 kV pulsed electron beam for research studies. This poster presents the challenges
that were met in the construction of the systemÕs components: vacuum system,
transformer, pulsing module, acceleration chamber, and lead shielding to block
X-rays. At each stage, the key
design consideration was accessibility of the internals of the system so as to
achieve the flexibility required of a research machine.
4. Albright, Aurora, Karin Musier
Forsyth
New
Methods for Making in vitro tRNA for Use in X-ray Crystallography
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemistry
Abstract: X-ray crystallography has played a crucial role in the
advancement of science. The technique uses crystals of a desired molecule to
understand its structure. From the structure, the function of this molecule can
be further understood at a molecular level. Potentially, its functional
mechanism would help design a plausible drug. Our target molecules are
aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and its cognate tRNA, because it plays a crucial
role in protein synthesis. We have had troubles in our lab trying to crystalize
tRNA bound to its cognate protien, and we think that one of the reasons may be
due to heterogenety at the 5' end due to our current methods. I have been
working on several new methods of in vitro tRNA preparations with the hopes of
eliminating this problem of heterogenity, including using template
oligonucliotides and different PCR techniques.
5. Antipova, Anna, Lev Lis, Steven
Kass
Synthetic
Progress Towards the Structuralelucidation of a Cyclopropene Anion and its
Inversion Barrier
Home
Institution: Institute of Organic Chemistry of Russian Academy of Sciences,
Moscow
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Synthetic progress towards the structural elucidation of a
cyclopropenyl anion will be reported. A chiral cyclopropene has been
synthesized in the racemic form and its in situ trapping experiments will be
described.
6. Brownell, Jessica, Junha Jeon,
Thomas R. Hoye
Towards
the Total Synthesis of (+)-Gigantecin: Synthesis and Purification of Fragment 3
and its Precursors
Home
Institution: Coe College
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: (+)-Gigantecin, first isolated in 1990, is a member of the
annonaceous acetogenins. They are characterized by their cytotoxicity and have
been shown to selectively kill fast growing cancerous cells by inhibiting
electron transfer in the mitochondria thus interrupting energy production. To
synthesize (+)-gigantecin, three fragments are synthesized and then fused
together through 3-component coupling metathesis. This project focuses on the synthesis of Fragment 3 which is
made by the addition of the TIPS protecting group to the starting material,
(-)-muricatacin. Furthermore, a DIBAL reduction to give a lactol, Wittig
reaction, DIBAL reduction to give a second alcohol group, iodoetherification to
give the tetrahydrofuran ring, and sulfur ylide chemistry were completed to
yield Fragment 3. Purification
difficulties were overcome using Medium Pressure Liquid Chromatography (MPLC).
7. Buck, Eric E., Thomas R. Hoye,
Christopher S. Jeffrey
Studies
Toward the Synthesis of Erysotramidine-the Alkylation of 6,
7-Dimethoxyl-1-Methyl-3, 4-Dihydroisoquioline
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemistry
Abstract: Erysotramidine is a natural product that is part of the
erythrina alkaloid family-- a biologically active group of natural
products. Our approach to the
synthesis is to use relay-ring closing metathesis (RRCM) to simultaneously
construct the A and B rings of erysotramidine skeleton from a dienyne. Initial studies of this RRCM suggest
that substituting the olefin may affect a greater degree of control over the
selectivity of the RRCM reaction.
The synthesis of the dienyne relies on an alkylation of the
dihydroisoquinoline to install the alkene substitutent in the
isoquinoline. Studies of the
alkylation of 6,7-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydroisoquinoline using No-D 1H NMR
spectroscopy will be discussed.
8. Coduluto, Stephen, R. Lee Penn
Controlling
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Growth Using Various Synthetic Conditions
Home Institution:
University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemistry – HEISIG
Abstract: Zinc oxide growth rates and particles sizes were modified
by changing solution conditions.
By changing solution conditions such as surfactant type, zinc to
hydroxide ratio, and zinc precursor, the growth rate and final particle size
can be controlled. Nanoparticles
ranging from 3-10 nm were synthesized in isopropyl alcohol using sodium
hydroxide as an initiator.
Particle sizes were determined in-situ using UV-vis spectroscopy and the
effective mass model. In general,
the more surfactant used the smaller the final particle size and the higher the
zinc to hydroxide ratio the larger the final particle size. An oriented aggregation based kinetic
model was used to describe the particle growth. Rate constants for growth were obtained by minimizing the
unsigned mean error between the model and the experimental results. These rate constants were used to
determine the activation energies for the reaction.
9. Comellas, Gemma, R. Lee Penn,
William A. Arnold, Chan Lan Chun
Kinetic
and Microscopic Studies of Organic Contaminants on Goethite
Home
Institution: Universitat de Barcelona
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Reactions on iron oxide mineral surfaces play an important
role in the fate of organic contaminants in both natural (e.g., groundwater,
wetlands)1, 2 and engineered (e.g., Fe0 permeable reactive barriers and water
distribution systems composed of cast and ductile iron metal)3, 4 systems. As reactions proceed, the size,
morphology, and even the phase of iron oxide minerals may change, leading to
altered reactivity. This study addresses the reductive degradation of four
different organic contaminants by Fe (II)/goethite (alpha-FEOOH) by performing
multi-injection batch experiments. These four organic contaminants are:
4-chloronitrobenze, tribromoacetic acid, trifluralin and oxamyl. Using
transmission electron microscopy, particle size and size distribution analysis
of a minimum of 400 particles was performed. Results demonstrate that
post-reaction
goethite
particles are substantially longer but not wider than pre-reaction particles.
Results comparing the morphology, size, and size distribution of goethite particles
sampled from the multi-injection experiments using each of the four
contaminants
will
be shown.
10. Glab, Kristin, Son Nguyen, Craig
Forsyth
Synthesis
of the C27-C40 Domain of Azaspiracid
Home
Institution: Vanderbilt University
Sponsor:
Chemistry
Abstract: Synthesis of the C27-C40 domain of azaspiracid will be
presented. Route highlights
include: i) a boron-mediated anti-aldol reaction followed by a
chelation-controlled Mukaiyama establishing the C 32-C33 and C34-C35
connections; ii) formation of the spiroaminal moiety (H-I ring), achieved by a
novel cyclization process which was initiated from an iminophosphorane
intermediate.
11. Hompesch, Richard, Besik Kankia,
Karin Musier-Forsyth
Novel
Quadruplex-based Optical Assay as a Model for Strand Exchange Reactions in
HIV-1
Home
Institution: University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: The HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein (NC) plays a central role in
HIV replication and is therefore a potential target for HIV therapeutics. One
of NCÕs roles is to facilitate strand exchange reactions required for the
reverse transcription of the HIV genome. In this study, a novel optical
absorption assay was used, which monitors strand exchange via the formation of
a quadruplex structure. The optimal conditions under which to monitor strand
exchange reactions, utilizing a mismatched duplex substrate, were determined.
The activation energy for two separate reaction mechanisms, with and without
the NC protein, was measured. This work sets the stage for future studies of
other oligonucleotide sequences and the role that secondary structure plays in
strand exchange reactions catalyzed by NC.
12. Jacobs, Michelle, Marc Hillmyer,
Satish Kumar
Topographical
Patterning Mediated by Surface Energy Gradients
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Chemistry – HEISIG
Abstract: Topographically patterned surfaces have many uses including
coatings, microfluidic channels, and adhesion modifiers. Chemical and mechanical means have been
used to modify polymer surfaces to create these desired topographies. The fluorination and alteration of
surface energies have been explored but the mechanism of surface movement has
not been investigated. Theoretical
studies predict that these solid deformations are due to surface energy
gradients similar to liquid flow that is driven by these same gradients. We are exploring the movement of soft
1,2-polybutadiene films where areas of the surface possess differing extents of
fluorination and therefore varied surface energies. We have characterized the surface modulations and found
interesting patterns, topography, and increased contact angle by visually
enhanced microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and static contact angle
measurements.
13. Koseoglu, Secil, Philippe
Buhlmann
Ion
Selective Electrodes Based on a Guanidinium Ionophore
Home
Institution: Middle East Technical University
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Since oxoanions such as sulfate and phosphate have
important roles in biological systems, their determination in clinical and
environmental chemistry is of major importance. Unfortunately, satisfactory
chemical sensors for these ions are not available. This study investigates the
response mechanism of oxoanion ionophores with guanidinium groups. These
ionophores may act as neutral receptors and as protonated and, therefore,
charged receptors. The synthesis of a highly hydrophobic guanidinium ionophore
was optimized, showing that the purest compound could be obtained by reaction
of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and octadecylamin at 70 C without any solvent,
followed conversion to the hydrochloride and column chromatography. The pH
dependence of the selectivity of this receptor is being investigated with
membranes containing ionic sites and ionophore in different ratios to control
the stoichiometry of the ionophore complexes.
14. Murphy, Michael, Nathan Wells,
David Blank
Photophysics
of New Material for Organic Photovoltaics
Home
Institution: Loras College
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells consist of two light
absorbing organic semiconductors of different energy levels. OPVs can be
produced at a much lower cost than current inorganic photovoltaic cells, and
have potential to absorb more of the solar energy spectrum. Because of this,
OPVs have the potential to be the solution to the renewable resources dilemma.
However, current OPV efficiency is still to low to be a viable resource. In
order to increase efficiency new organic semiconductors must be found. One such
organic semiconductor is poly-3-hexyl thiophene (P3HT). We studied the
photophysics of P3HT as a possible organic semiconductor for use in OPVs.
15. Retka, Noah, Joe Fritsch, Kris
McNeill
Synthesis
and Reactivity of Halo-vinyl Tetraphenylporphyrin Cobalt Complexes
Home
Institution: St. JohnÕs University
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE) are
carcinogenic pollutants commonly found in groundwater. Vitamin B12, a cobalt containing
macrocycle, has been found to effectively dechlorinate PCE and TCE to ethylene,
a benign product. Under similar
reaction conditions, a water-soluble cobalt porphyrin has been found to also
catalytically dechlorinate these pollutants. This research project has focused on cobalt porphyrin
complexes as potential catalytic cycle intermediates in the dechlorination process. Different halo-vinyl complexes of
tetraphenylporphyrin cobalt were prepared and studied to compare stability and
reactivity differences.
Specifically, this project focuses on the preparation, characterization,
and reactivity of the (trans-2-bromovinyl)(tetraphenylporphyrin) cobalt.
16. Shrestha, Liza, Craig Forsyth
Multi-step
Synthesis of an Intermediate of Spirastrellolide A
Home
Institution: Berea College
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Anticancer treatments developed from natural products are
found to be very effective, and this effectiveness has initiated the search for
natural products with antimitotic activity. Spirastrellolide A, a natural product that can be isolated
from a Caribbean marine sponge Spirastrellolide coccinea, is found to be the
major antimitotic component and shows a potent activity in a cell based assay
that detects mitotic arrest. This
research focuses on the synthesis of the C37- C40 left fragment of the
trioxadispiroketal domain. This particular fragment can be synthesized by
applying various reduction, cyclization, protection and deprotection
mechanisms. The final product was characterized by NMR and the results verify
that the desired compound was successfully synthesized.
17. Wray, Curtis, Darrin York
Theoretical
Prediction of Proton Affinities and Gas Phase Basicities of Hydrated Metal Ions
Home
Institution: University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Sponsor:
Chemistry – LANDO
Abstract: Metal ions are important cofactors in many enzymatic
reactions, modulating substrate reactivity through a variety of
mechanisms. Consequently, a first
step toward understanding the role of metals in enzymatic reactions is to
accurately characterize the hydrated metals as a function of the protonation
state of water molecules in their first coordination sphere. In the present work, the structure,
coordination, proton affinity and gas-phase basicity values for Mg(II), Mn(II),
Ca(II), Zn(II) and Al(III) ions are determined from multi-level wave function
and density-functional based quantum chemistry models. The results provide insight into the
acid/base properties of these metals, and benchmark results that can be used in
the design of fast semiempirical quantum models for simulations of enzyme
reactions.
18. Widboom, Tony, L. E. Scriven
Intimate
Flow Portraits
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Minnesota Supercomputing Institute
Abstract: Intimate flow portraits of prototypical flow patterns first
examined in the early 20th century were taken using modern computational and
visualization methods. Quantities
such as vorticity, inertial and viscous forces, and local ReynoldÕs number were
analyzed in stagnation flows, flows involving a parallel flat plate, flow near
a spinning disk, and swirling fluid over a stationary disk. The pressure field of the von Karman
pump has been incorrectly reported in modern fluid mechanics books due to a
sign error dating back to the original paper. Regions of increased local ReynoldÕs number were found along
the symmetry line in the case of a rotating disk with fluid rotation at
infinity.
19. Beauvais, Emily, Allen Goldman
Effect
of Ultraviolet Light on the Conduction of Tetracene in Field Effect Transistors
Home
Institution: Augsburg College
Sponsor: Materials
Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of Advanced
Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: Tetracene, as used in organic field effect transistors
(OFETs), has many superior qualities such as being mechanically flexible and
both cheaper and easier to produce than its silicon counterparts. What is holding us back from using
OFETs in advanced electronics is the significantly lower charge mobility that
causes reduced conduction through the crystal. It is believed that, along with its p-type conduction,
tetracene could also have n-type charge carriers if the electrons are freed
from the traps located at the substrate interface. In this study, we observed the effects of ultra-violet light
and tested the resistance of the UV illuminated tetracene crystal. We hope our results may increase the
use of OFETs and better the understanding of the charge carrier mechanism.
20. Brewer, Damien, Janice Boercker,
Eray Aydil
Synthesis
and Characterization of Oriented ZnO Arrays
Home
Institution: Washington University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: Zinc oxide is a wide bandgap semiconductor which shows
promise in solar cell applications.
The solar conversion efficiency depends upon ZnO morphology, manifested
in thin particle films, oriented nanowire arrays, crystaline plates and
rods. Synthesis and
characterization of these zinc oxide structures were studied, including the
fundamental reaction kinetics and the processing-structure relationships of
sol-gel chemistry techniques.
Methods for synthesis of uniformly coated, oriented nanowire arrays were
developed. Nanoparticle and
nanowire growth were found to be dominated by heterogeneous processes at the
solution-solid interface.
Crystaline plate structures formed in zinc nitrate, methenamine, and
sodium citrate were found to nucleate homogeneously in solution; these crystals
formed non-oriented clusters on a flat substrate, effectively hindering
nanowire growth from the c-face.
21. Evans, Christopher, Frank S.
Bates
The
Effects of Asymmetry on Domain Spacing and Orientation in Block Copolymers
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: We propose to study the effects of asymmetry on the
morphology and mechanical properties of poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene)
(SISIS) pentablock copolymers.
These pentablocks are synthesized with controlled anionic polymerization
by sequentially alternating between styrene and isoprene addition. The sizes of the middle three blocks
are kept constant while the lengths of the two terminal styrene blocks are
varied. The mechanical properties
and morphological domain spacing of pentablock copolymers with identical
overall compositions depends on the relative lengths of these two terminal blocks. We will investigate the effect of
varying the terminal block lengths on domain spacing using small-angle x-ray
scattering (SAXS) and on tensile strength using tensile testing. The fundamental understanding
elucidated from these studies will aid in the design of mechanically robust
plastics for a variety of uses, including medical and electronics applications.
22. Fonseca, Miguel, Peter McMurry
Laser
Ablation Aerosol Mass Spectrometry
Home
Institution: Polytechnic University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, IGERT for Nanoparticle
Science and Engineering
Abstract: Laser ablation aerosol time-of-flight spectrometry is a
recently devised technique used to characterize the size and composition of
small individual gas-borne particles. The main mechanism is to direct a
high-intensity UV pulse laser at the particles with the purpose of ablating
them into its chemical constituents which will then be mass analyzed by
time-of-flight mass spectrometry to determine the particlesÕ composition. My
research is focused on sulfates. Sulfates are a major component of atmospheric
particles; however, they are difficult to detect using this technique because
of their high ionization energy and consequently pose an obstacle to an
accurate compositional analysis. The research objective is to enhance the
detectability of sulfates by coating them with certain UV-absorbing fluids
before the laser ablation process. My goal is to develop a computer program
that measures the condensation growth rate of the fluid on the surfa!
ce of the particles. Our latest results
show that particles are indeed amplified to a detectable size.
23. Goblirsch, Brandon, Thomas Marsh
Home
Institution: University of St. Thomas
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: The feature of programmable self-assembly makes nucleic
acids an attractive material for the creation of nanoscale circuitry. The self-assembling scaffold material
used in this work is a modified ten base pair oligonucleotide sequence,
GGGGT*TGGGG (TM1-6) that bears a thiol functional group on one of the thymine
(T*) bases. The oligonulceotide,
TM1-6 is capable of self-assembling into long linear quadruple helical DNA
filaments called G-wires with thiol functional groups enabling Au nanoparticle
decoration. Initially, thiol modified G-wires are deposited on the desired
substrate surface. A G-wire
nanoparticle array is subsequently formed in situ by incubation of the coated
substrate with a solution of Au nanoparticle in dichloromethane. The resulting structure manifests
itself in the form of a G-wire scaffold with branched thiol groups each bearing
a conductive Au moiety.
24. Jalbert, Brandon, Thomas Marsh
Using
Plasma Enhanced Chemical Deposition to Grow Silicon Nanowires
Home
Institution: Florida State University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, IGERT for Nanoparticle
Science and Engineering
Abstract: Nanowires and nanotubes have been a recent topic of
interest to aid in many different applications. The focus of this project is to successfully grow silicon
nanowires with the use of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition aided by a
gold catalyst. This method allows
the growth of nanowires at lower temperatures than other processes. To facilitate the nanowire production,
we are building a device that uses an applied voltage at a controlled
temperature with silane to produce the plasma required by the specifications of
the project. We will attempt to
study the luminescent properties of these nanowires as well as other
applications: including uses in polymers, integrated circuits, and many more.
25. Johansen, Aaron, David Dahl, Dan
Dahlberg, Hyuk-Jae Jang
Magnetic
Force Microscopy [Ferromagnetic and Antiferromagnetic Switching Probabilities]
Home
Institution: St. Olaf College
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of
Advanced Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: WeÕre studying the magnetic reversal characteristics of a
nano-scale ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic layered particle. The magnetic reversal is cause by an
external magnetic field, and verified with magnetic force microscopy. This summer we're plotting the
switching probabilities of a target particle with respect to time and magnetic
field strength. This research is a
continuation of the switching probabilities measured by Douglas Stone, another
St. Olaf student. Future aims of
this research project include using a bias field to lower the energy barrier of
the particle, and then using a pulse field to switch the particle.
26. Lio, Wilber, David Norris
Quantum
Dot Bioconjugates
Home
Institution: Iowa State University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of
Advanced Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: Semiconductor nanocrystals, also called quantum dots, have
unique optical properties that make them desirable for biological imaging
applications. One advantage over
conventional dyes is that quantum dots do not photo-bleach. They also have a broad absorption
spectrum and a narrow, size-tunable emission spectrum. The bioconjugation
experiments were conducted with CdSe/ZnS quantum dot micelles and
anti-biotin.
1-Ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl] carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) was
used as the cross-linker.
Biotin-agarose beads were used to test the conjugation product. The quantum dot bioconjugates will be
used in a cancer study.
27. Martin, Hermanus, James Kakalios
Electronic
and Optical Properties of a-Si:H Thin Films
Home
Institution: Morehouse College
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, IGERT for Nanoparticle
Science and Engineering
Abstract: Amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) is the non-crystalline form of
silicon. Because it is amorphous,
it has a disordered configuration that includes dangling bonds. When the dangling bonds are exposed to
hydrogen, the amorphous silicon becomes hydrogenated. Amorphous silicon has several applications due to its
irregular shape; it can spread across a wide area uniformly. It is also a
photovoltaic material, which means it produces energy when exposed to light.
Because of these properties, it is widely used in electronics such as LCDs and
solar cells. The focus of this
research topic is to study and identify the electronic and optical properties
of sample a-Si:H films in terms of conductivity, photoconductivity, and optical
absorption.
28. Paulsen, Bryan, Kent Mann
Synthesis
and Characterization of Naphthalene-Capped Oligothiphenes for Use As
Semiconducting Materials in Thin Film Transistors
Home
Institution: Tri-State University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: Organic
semiconductors have the potential to be used in the manufacture of solution
processable thin film transistors (TFTs), and may provide an inexpensive
alternative to current silicon technology. One promising family of semiconducting organic molecules is
oligothiophenes. The purpose of this
research is to synthesize and characterize naphthalene-capped oligothiophenes with
alkyl substituents for use as the semiconducting layer in a TFT. Unsubstituted molecules show p-type behavior
and a herringbone packing motif. The
addition of alkyl substituents will force the molecules into a ¹-stacking
structure in the solid state and change the behavior of the semiconductor. The alkyl substituents will also provide
increased solubility, which can provide ease in the characterization and possible
spin coating of films. All the
molecules synthesized in this study will be characterized by methods that include: nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy,
UV-VIS spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry, and cyclic
voltammetry.
29. Perry, Glen, Xiaoyang Zhu
STM
and Organic Semiconductors
Home
Institution: Carleton College
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: What allows for the conduction of electrons in certain
materials? This has been looked
into for many years, and my proposed research intends to look into the
specifics of organic monolayers.
Previous research has shown that several compounds will form upright
strands, when connected to certain metals with SAMs. In this formation the conduction band of these molecules
form one conduction band which allows for conduction along these paths. My research proposes to observe
monolayers of this sort using a STM to take topographical images of these
monolayers. The goal is look into
suitable substrates for these molecules by observe their structure, and then
place the monolayers on the substrates and observe them to verify the proposed
structure.
30. Reaves, Cletis, Alhad Phatak,
Frank Bates
Effects
of Block Sequencing on Mechanical Properties of Polyolefin-containing Block
Copolymers
Home
Institution: Florida A&M University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: Block copolymers are unique in the way they self assemble
into micro-phase separated structures. Controlling block copolymer properties
by manipulating the constituent blocks is leading to the use of these materials
in more diverse applications. We are studying the mechanical properties of
block copolymers composed of poly (cyclohexylethylene) ÒCÓ, and poly (ethylene)
ÒEÓ. A CEC triblock copolymer exhibits ductile behavior, while its ECE
counterpart is an extremely brittle material. This dramatic difference stems
from the presence of bridging E chains in CEC. We plan to gradually introduce E
bridging by starting with ECE and adding varying amounts of CEC to prepare a
series of blends. Testing the tensile properties of these blends will reveal
the degree of E bridging necessary to obtain a ductile material.
31. Redline, Erica, Chris Macosko
Effects
of Composition and Processing on the Morphology of PS/PMMA Blends
Home
Institution: Pennsylvania State University
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: The effects of composition and processing on the morphology
of PS/PMMA blends were assessed, with an emphasis on the co-continuous
morphology. Blends were created at various compositions and morphology studied
using rheometry, SEM and solvent extraction methods. Rheometry data was used to
determine the co-continuous "boundaries" of PS/PMMA by plotting G' at
a frequency of 0.01 versus composition. The accuracy of this analysis was
verified using SEM images. Preliminary studies of processing conditions on
polymer morphology have begun but are not yet completed.
32. Schaefer, Michaela, Paul Crowell
Ferrofluid
Phenomena: The Effects of Constant and Time-Varying Magnetic Fields on Magnetic
Liquids
Home
Institution: University of South Carolina
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of
Advanced Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: A ferrofluid is a colloidal suspension of magnetic
nanoparticles in a carrier liquid.
When a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the fluid a multitude
of patterns are observed.
Application of direct current magnetic field produces simple designs
that are triangular, square, pentagonal, and hexagonal. Hexagonal, superlattice, square, and
rotating ring lattices have been recorded at various settings of alternating
magnetic field amplitude and current frequency. A series of wave vectors are extracted from the Fourier
transforms of ferrofluid lattices.
A set of wave vectors defines defects in patterns and internal energies
characteristic of each lattice. By
determining specifications correlating the magnetic field properties to the
patterns observed at the surface, comprehensive control of the ferrofluid for
lubrication, sealant, damping, and medical applications is achieved
33. Shearer, Paul, Christopher
Leighton, Jing Wu
Magnetization
as a Function of Temperature in a La-Pr-Sr Cobaltite
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor: Materials
Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of Advanced
Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: The cobaltites Pr0.5Sr0.5CoO3 and La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 are
similar in crystalline structure. However, the magnetization as a function of
temperature in La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 is in agreement with ferromagnetic theory, while
the magnetization curve for Pr0.5Sr0.5CoO3 is anomalous. We will examine the
transition from normal to anomalous magnetization curve by measuring the
magnetization as a function of temperature for the family of alloys
Pr0.5xLa0.5(1-x)Sr0.5CoO3 where x varies from 0 to 1. It is expected that the
specific nature of this transition will help to explain the cause of the
anomalous Pr0.5Sr0.5CoO3 magnetization curve. The samplesÕ crystalline
structures will be characterized by x-ray diffraction, while their magnetic
properties (such as the magnetization vs. temperature curve) will be
characterized by SQUID magnetometry.
34. Tam, Joanny, Victor Barocas and
Paul Hattan
Micro-Channels
(Mcs) for Protein Crystallization Micro-Array (CRYMA)
Home
Institution: Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: To understand the function of proteins, their 3-D
crystalline structure must be identified by X-ray crystallography. CRYMA can be employed to obtain large
and defect-free protein crystals.
Fixed and flexible MCs that will be used in the CRYMA were studied. MCs with different width and fixed
depth were connected to a simple manometer and water flow was applied. The experimental data was obtained by
varying the water levels in the manometer and measuring the height
difference. The experimental
results showed an increased resistance for slower flows, decreasing the width
of the MCs did not increase the resistance, varying the water levels had
minimal impact in the resistance, the experimental resistances for fixed MCs
exceeds the theoretical resistance due to their roughness and irregularities,
the experimental resistance for flexible MCs is less than the theoretical
resistance because they expand, increasing depth and decreasing the !
resistance.
35. Wise, Adam, Allen Goldman
Insulator-Superconductor
Transitions in Indium Oxide Thin Films
Home
Institution: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Sponsor: Materials
Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of Advanced
Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: The effects of ultraviolet radiation on the transition
temperature and characteristics of Indium Oxide films will be investigated
through measurement of electrical properties at low temperatures and high
magnetic fields. Spectra from the
ultraviolet source, a mercury-ion fluorescent bulb, will be further
characterized. Alternate filters
and light sources will be tested for controlling the peak frequencies of
emitted light. Changes in oxygen content as a result of ultraviolet exposure
and subsequent annealing will be examined as a possible mechanism for the
varying resistivity of irradiated samples.
36. Wydra, James, C. Daniel Frisbie
Synthesis
of Air Stable Polythiophene with Applications for Orgaic Photovoltaics
Home Institution:
University of Iowa
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, Institute for the Theory of
Advanced Materials in Information Technology
Abstract: Recently organic solar cells have become of increased
interest over traditional inorganic solar cells. Inorganic solar cells have a high cost of production to
power output ratio and therefore are not currently an economical source of
energy conversion. Organic solar
cells, on the other hand, can be produced at a lower cost and have gained
interest in preliminary studies.
Organic solar cells in the past have been made from poly
(3-hexylthiophe), P3HT, which has limited usefulness due to its instability in
air. When P3HT is exposed to air
the polymer begins to lose its electrical transport properties, which makes
P3HT impractical for device fabrication.
In my research I will synthesize Poly(3,3‰Ûª‰Ûª‰Ûª-didodecyl-quaterthiophene),
PQT-12, a conjugated thiophene polymer.
PQT-12 has similar electrical properties to P3HT, but has the added
quality of being air stable which makes PQT-12 particularly interesting for
solar cells fabrication.
37. Yust, David, Michael Tsapatsis
Synthesis
and Characterization of Zeolite – Polymer Composite Membranes
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor:
Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
Abstract: Gas separation by membranes offers an alternative to often
economically and/or environmentally taxing distillation, absorption, and
adsorption processes. The focus of
our research is synthesis of a composite membrane for industrial hydrogen separation
scale-up featuring the high selectivity inherent to zeolite molecular sieves
combined with favorable mechanical and coating process properties of polymer
films. Using flaked filled polymer
membrane theory we attribute the separation performance of the composite to the
aggregation and orientation of porous zeolite platelets dispersed in the
polymer network. Permeation and
selectivity of synthesized composites will be determined by flux from measured
partial pressure changes across the films at different temperatures. Resolved microstructure by various
electron microscopies coupled with associated separation properties will
motivate subsequent formulation and synthesis.
38. Barrett, Laura, E. Dan Dahlberg
Magnetic
Tunnel Junctions from Sputtering to MRAM
Home
Institution: Middlebury College
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: Magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) take advantage of quantum
mechanics to set up a current through an insulating barrier. The barrier is a thin film (several
angstroms) between two thicker ferromagnetic layers. These layers, since they are ferromagnets, have a direction
of magnetization that a magnetic field can control (refrigerator magnets are an
example of ferromagnets). When the
ferromagnetic films are magnetized parallel to each other, the resistance of
the MTJ is low. However, if we
change the magnetization so it is anti-parallel, the resistance is much
higher. We want to create these
devices so we can observe what happens when two of these junctions are made on
top of each other, leaving us with an interesting variation on the Òparticle-in-a-boxÓ
problem in quantum mechanics.
39. Blees, Melina, C.C. Huang, Mick
Veum
Liquid
Crystals: Studies in Surface Tension
Home
Institution: Carleton College
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: One of the primary goals of surface science is to
understand the way in which macroscopic surface properties arise from the
compositions and interactions of molecules. In this study, we explored thin
freestanding liquid crystal films. By measuring surface tension as a function
of temperature for many substances differing only slightly in molecular
structure, we discovered that there is a significant difference in the rate of
change of surface tension at different thicknesses depending on subtle changes
in chemical composition.
40. Guzzi, Anne, John Broadhurst
The
Physical Basis of Sound Memory
Home
Institution: College of William and Mary
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: According to the Nyquist theory, if the brain were to
record every feature of the sounds it hears, its capacity would be exceeded in
days. Therefore the brain must be
selectively remembering certain properties of a sound. The effect of altering the starting
transient will be studied using magnetoencephalography, which detects the
changing magnetic field around the head in response to brain activity. The experiment requires a computer
program to write the envelopes of the sound waves used as stimuli, allowing the
user to input the characteristics of the sound waves while maintaining random
interstimulus intervals and patterns to prevent anticipation. The features of the program and the
effectiveness of FortranÕs random number generator will be discussed.
41. Hansen, Stephen, Dan
Cronin-Hennessy
Strangeness
Counting in Psi(3770) Decays
Home
Institution: Creighton University
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: The energy of the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR) is
tuned to production of D meson pairs. The decays of these particles are studied
in the CLEO detector. Rare, Cabbibo-suppressed decays are looked at in order to
better understand quark mixing. Quark mixing is the only known source of
CP-violation, an effect vital to Baryogenesis, which explains the universes
preference to matter over antimatter. Current background discrimination
methods, while extremely clean, do not provide enough signal events for study.
By counting the strangeness of these types of events we hope to improve this
efficiencies.
42. Hazlett, Eric, Dan
Cronin-Hennessy, Ken Heller
Fiber
Bend Test for Numi Off-Axis Neutrino Appearance Experiment
Home
Institution: Colorado State University
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: Current experiments show that neutrino flavor oscillations
occur. The NO?A experiment aims to
explore this phenomenon. ??
from NuMI will travel to the NO?A detector in northern
Minnesota.. The mixing of ?? and ?e will be confirmed as well as the
determination of the value of sin2(?13). Matter effects can determine the sign
of the difference in the squares of these neutrino masses. This will aid in determining the
neutrino mass hierarchy. Results
from NO?A will also help to provide insights into CP violation. The fibers to be used in NO?A will be
bent beyond the normal bend radius.
It must be shown that this will not cause a critical loss in
signal. Preliminary results will
be discussed.
43. Hendargo, Hansford, Joachim
MŸeller
Creation
of a Hollow Laser Beam for Use in Experimental Biophysics
Home
Institution: Harvey Mudd College
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: The creation of ÒhollowÓ laser beams that have zero
intensity on-axis has been demonstrated. Such beams can improve the imaging
resolution of fluorescence spectroscopic techniques and also have applications
in micro-particle trapping. Diffraction gratings made from computer generated
holograms can convert a standard Gaussian beam to the hollow Laguerre-Gauss
beam. We have created a hollow beam in the lab. We are currently in the process
of applying the laser to two-photon excitation experiments. The future goal is
to use the laser in Stimulated Emission and Depletion (STED) microscopy.
44. Hooke, Alex, Jim Kakalios
Effects
of Nanoparticles in Amorphous Silicon Thin Films
Home
Institution: University of Maryland
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: Hydrogenated amorphous silicon is the most common material
used in photovoltaic solar cells today.
While these cells are functional, their relatively low efficiency is not
comparable to that of other energy sources. A series of a-SI:H thin films were deposited in the high
temperature plasma laboratory under varying thermal gradients and with
different nanocrystal concentrations.
We experimentally found the optical band gap for this series of
films. This information is then
used to determine which combinations of concentrations and gradients highly
absorb light energy from within the visible spectrum.
45. Jozwiak, Julie, Prisca Cushman
Ba
Calibration Trending and Beta Correlations with Respect to Position and Energy
Home Institution:
Cornell College
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: The first project was that to make sure the data coming
from CDMS was accurate, the calibration data must not move with time. This
would lower the resolution to below the internal resolution of the
detectors. Some trending was found
in graphing the mean of the 356keV peak with respect to time.
The
second project was looking at betas to see if there was any correlation between
the Ba calibration data and the WIMP-search data with respect to energy and
position on the detectors. Since
the cuts were made on the Ba data, it should be possible to predict the
appearance of the WIMP-search data.After fitting Gaussians, it was determined
that there was correlation between the data sets with respect to position and
energy.
46. Juwono, Benedectus, Peter J.
Litchfield
In
Search of Electrons
Home
Institution: University of California – San Diego
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: The NuMI Off-axis ?e Appearance Experiment, designed to
study the oscillation of neutrinos from one flavor to another, consists of two
detectors placed off-axis from the main NuMI beamline: the near detector and
the far detector. The data collected in the far detector, located approximately
810 km away from the Fermilab site, will be compared with the data collected in
the near detector, located at Fermilab, to determine whether oscillation from
?? to ?e has occurred. As a result, it is vitally important to be able to
distinguish signal (?? ? ?e) events from background (?e contamination, ??
charged current, ?? neutral current) events in the far detector. The quantity
that relates the two events is the Figure of Merit (FoM) and must therefore be
optimized.
47. Krueger, Benjamin, Allen Goldman
Quantum
Interference Effects in Conducting Glass
Home
Institution: Drake University
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: In the course of experiments to determine whether samples of
conducting glass are superconductors, a sudden increase in the resistance at
low temperatures was observed.
Upon further study this anomaly appears to be caused by weak
localization and spin-orbit scattering of conduction electrons in the thin
metallic film. Although
superconductivity was never found, characteristic scattering times of the
conduction electrons were determined by analysis of plots showing resistance
against both the temperature and magnetic field.
48. MacGregor, Robert, Cynthia
Cattell
An
Analysis of CME Shocks
Home
Institution: Rice University
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: A survey of fifteen CME shocks was conducted and TDS
captures from the WIND spacecraft were analyzed upstream, downstream, and in
the shock ramp. Ion acoustic and
modulated Langmuir waves were observed.
Shock propagation times were measured between the WIND, ACE, and Cluster
satellites and compared to the propagation speed across the Cluster
constellation.
49. Raach, Kate, Paul Crowell
Defects
in Ferrofluids
Home Institution:
University of Minnesota
Sponsor: Physics
Abstract: A ferrofluid is a colloidal dispersion of ferromagnetic
particles, of size approximately 10 nm, in a nonmagnetic carrier fluid. When the ferrofluid is subjected to a
magnetic field, an array of peaks forms on its surface. We call an isolated peak a defect, that
which is responsible for breaking the symmetry of our fluidÕs surface. We explore the creation and dynamics of
these defects. In particular, we
look at the stability of the defects.
50. Dixon, Scott, Ling Zhang, Chris
Macosko
The
Effects of Bio-based Polyols on Polyurethane Foam Properties
Home
Institution: University of Minnesota
Sponsor: UROP
Abstract: Polyurethane foams made from bio-derived polyols have shown
different physical properties and morphology than foams made from petroleum
based polyols. This deviation in
properties appears to be the result of phase mixing within the foam. We are investigating the relationship
between the chemical structure of the polyols and the resulting foam. This will be done through a proposed
series of model compounds, for which their reactions with isocyanate will be
monitored to determine the source of this phase mixing. Characterization methods include DSC,
SAXS, FT-IR, and DMA.