Emissive Materials from Supramolecular Platforms

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Our research program is aimed at making unique molecular assemblies using the same type of intermolecular interactions that give biology its ability to form DNA double helices, and perform complex chemical transformations such as peptide assembly via the ribosome. What differentiates our work from biology is that we are developing functional materials with industrial applications by employing intermolecular interactions to form higher-order assemblies with discrete, efficient and accessible properties. We have recently demonstrated that we can embed a luminescent iridium metal center into a “DNA base-pair” type architecture, where hydrogen bonding of a guest molecule to its complement exhibits enhanced photoluminescent behavior and colour change. By slightly modifying the structures of the molecular pair, we can also tune their physical and photophysical properties.******Building on our most recent results, we will begin compiling a library of complimentary small molecules that will allow us to explore a range of colours without changing the structure of the ligand set surrounding iridium center itself. We are particularly interested in accessing an efficient true-blue emitter for light-emitting devices (still industrially difficult to achieve), by tuning the pairing compliment molecule. Using this archetypical design, we will also form extended higher-order structures by employing ditopic H-bonded linkers to form supramolecular polymeric assemblies, formulated into nanoparticles. We expect enhanced emission properties from these self-healing aggregates comparable to quantum dots emitters. The self-healing property is noteworthy, as it will allow us to access new inkjet deposition protocols for LED device fabrication.******Using a related iridium platform, we will also assemble extended porous crystalline solids termed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) using the photoluminescent iridium component as a sensing mechanism. MOFs have structures related to zeolite materials, but with the ability to tune the properties of the pores for a variety of uses. By combining the emissive component of the iridium material and the proton-rich co-ligand we have designed, we will demonstrate discrete flue-gas sensing by way of small molecule recognition through H-bonding.******Finally, the program will facilitate the most valuable element in our research program, which is the training of skilled and motivated Highly Qualified Personnel. These individuals will emerge from our program as some of Canada's most exceptional scientists whose work will help shape the future of Canadian science and technology.