Molecular recognition in solution and at solid-solution interfaces

The self-assembly process in solution and solution/solid interface was explored in this work. Initial work focused on the development of receptors based on 6-aryl-2,4-acyldiamino-s-triazines for investigating the recognition process with flavin in solution. Self-assembled monolayer (SAM) functionalized gold colloids and flat gold surfaces were used for the studies of interfacial recognition processes. We have incorporated molecular recognition elements and photo-switchable units into the monolayers of gold nanoparticles, allowing for exploration of the photochemical control of interfacial recognition processes. Adaptation of the self-assembly process for surface modification was also investigated. The surfaces were modified by synthetic polymers through recognition processes between thymine functional group of surface and complementary diaminopyridine functional group of polymer sidechains. Through this strategy, we have also shown the diaminopyridine (DAP) functionalized POSS derivatives self-assemble on thymine functionalized monolayers on gold surfaces. This recognition-mediated surface modification strategy could be extended onto other surfaces. Finally, a novel approach to highly ordered and modular nanoelectrode arrays (NEAs) was developed using block copolymer self-assembly. Variable scan rate cyclic voltammetry studies were performed to characterize the NEA.