Laser Assisted Synthesis of Nanoparticles
The use of light, including lasers, in the synthesis of nanomaterials has been a continuous area of interest due to its ability to control shape, size and composition of nanomaterials. The main advantage of the laser assisted synthesis methods is the possibility to fabricate surfactant-free with an accessible surface, rendering them attractive materials for solar cell, catalytic and biosensing applications.
Students will design experimental conditions to synthesize nanomaterials through the use of a pulsed laser, study their properties, and then investigate their application in the areas of energy or biomedical research.
Requirements
- General Chemistry
Optional
- Biology
- General Physics
Nanoparticles as Remote Light Converters for Biomedical Applications
Aside from the ability to detect and record optical signatures (e.g. imaging) from nanomaterials, some nanomaterials such as upconverting nanocrystals can serves as "internal" light sources, which can be switched by near infrared light sources. Offering deeper penetration depth these nanoparticles can be used for biomedical applications ranging from photodynamic therapy to light triggered on-demand drug release.
Students will synthesize and design composite nanoparticles and then study their optical signatures to determine their efficacy for future biomedical applications.
Requirements
- General Chemistry
Optional
- Biology
- General Physics
