Characterization Platform for Hierarchical Structures in Smart and Multi-Functional Materials and Surfaces

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Hierarchical Structuring is a complex macroscopic functional approach using nanostructures as the fundamental building blocks that relies on self-assembly, guided by microscopic thermodynamic interactions, to create complex geometries. The resultant structures can span several hierarchical levels from nano- to macro-scale, with advanced functionalities such as mechanical, thermal, electrical, and optical features. Hierarchical structures offer significant advantages over traditional structures due to their higher surface area and synergistic interactions. This allows the materials to have tailored properties from molecular to macroscopic scale, making them suitable for development of multi-functional smart materials. Characterization of hierarchical structuring of novel materials has to be understood at molecular level to macroscopic level. Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for molecular analysis that provides information on crystallinity, functional groups of molecules, and molecular interactions which are critical driving forces for hierarchical structure. From macroscopic perspectives, BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) surface area analyzer provides information on surface and pore volume. Together with Raman spectroscopy and BET analyzer, they provide necessary information to characterize the hierarchical materials from nano- to macro-scale. This proposed equipment is intended to support the research program "Characterization Platform for Hierarchical Structures in Smart and Multi-Functional Materials" within four departments at the University of Toronto and their collaborating Institutes. The equipment requested in this grant application is a materials characterization suite consisting of a Raman Spectrometer and a BET surface area analyzer for studying the molecular structure of multi-functional materials and surfaces developed for energy and biomedical applications.The main goal is to develop techniques to tailor and optimize advanced material structures by creating highly hierarchical organization on multiple length scales. The major applications for the nano and molecular structured multi-functional smart materials are: Smart Sensing; Energy Storage; and Biomaterials. The deployment of these new characterization suite can allow users to fully understand the surface morphologies, compositions, and internal and external porosity of the material and optimize the capabilities of the final product at the nanoscale, allowing the material inherent properties to be fully utilized in the end application.