Selective Extraction Into Fluorous Media

在化学系化学测量和成像计划的支持下，匹兹堡大学的斯蒂芬·韦伯教授和他的团队正在研究利用基质中的选择性分子受体选择性地传输和/或捕获分子，而基质中的分子受体是一种非常差的溶剂。具体地说，该程序设计和测试氟介质(全氟化碳和其他溶解于其中的溶质和溶剂)作为选择性提取的基础。改进的选择性可以为管理分子打开巨大的可能性。在对分析、提纯、分离、传感器、智能材料、人体健康、药物输送和合成至关重要的过程中。这项工作提供了对特氟龙类聚合物的更好的了解，使科学家和工程师能够制造出改进的薄膜和涂层，用于测量环境、食品、生物系统和工业过程中的化学物质。对新型材料和气体分离的潜在影响也是巨大的。具体目标包括化学物质？海绵？由于对全氟辛烷磺酸盐和全氟辛酸盐类具有很高的选择性，因此在河流和溪流中会遇到环境污染物。参与这项工作的研究生和本科生(包括新生)接触到了广泛的化学知识，提供了职业目标的早期定义。

With support from the Chemical Measurement and Imaging Program in the Division of Chemistry, Prof. Stephen Weber and his group at the University of Pittsburgh are studying the selective transport and/or capture of molecules using a selective molecular receptor in a matrix that is a very poor solvent. Specifically, the program devises and tests fluorous media (perfluorocarbons and other solutes and solvents that dissolve in them) as the basis for selective extractions. Improved selectivity can open up tremendous possibilities for ?managing molecules? in processes critical to analysis, purification, separations, sensors, smart materials, human health, drug delivery, and synthesis. The work provides better understanding of Teflon-like polymers, enabling scientists and engineers to make improved films and coatings useful for measuring chemicals in the environment, in foods, in biological systems, and in industrial processes. Potential impact on new types of materials and gas separations is also significant. Specific targets include chemical ?sponges? with high selectivity for perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoate, environmental pollutants encountered in rivers and streams. Graduate and undergraduate students (including freshmen) involved in this work are exposed to a wide range of chemistry, providing early definition of career goals.