Supramolecular Ion Conducting Membranes

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In this project, funded by the Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry Program of the Chemistry Division, Louis Madsen of Virginia Polytechnic and State University will investigate interactions between ion transport, morphology, and chemical structure in a range of highly ordered ion-conducting materials. These materials will be formed using wedge-shaped amphiphilic pi-stacked molecules with focal hydrophilic sulfonic acid head groups. These will self-assemble into supramolecular columns, in which sulfonic groups stack to form well defined ion channels. Madsen will use advanced multi-modal NMR methods to probe these materials, and will be part of an international collaboration in which Martin Moller (U. Aachen, Germany) will conduct highly tailored synthesis, and Dimitri Ivanov (CNRS, Mulhouse, France) will accomplish advanced X-ray and microscopy analyses. The broader impacts include developing a world infrastructure for research and education via international collaborations. Graduate students and postdocs will benefit from tailored mentoring programs as well as the international dimension of this work. Developing clean water and renewable energy sources will be required for sustainable life on this planet. Next-generation energy and environment-related technologies will rely on development of advanced materials in order to bring them beyond mere theories. This project will provide new insights into conductive materials to meet these grand challenges. An international collaboration with outstanding researchers in France and Germany will foster a world infrastructure for research and education, and in the process will educate US students and researchers in the global scientific enterprise.