| Ultrasound is the term used for frequencies of sound greater than that of which humans can collect and interpret. The range of frequencies of ultrasound start at 16 KHz and end at 500 MHz (in solution). Ultrasound can be further broken down to a region known as power ultrasound (20 KHz--5 MHz). Power ultrasound is special because of a phenomena known as cavitation. Cavitation is the nucleation, growth, and implosive collapse of gas bubbles in solutions. Upon collapse, intense heat and pressure is obtained inside the bubble and in the adjacent solvent media. As well as this intense heating, microjet formation can cause erosion of solid surfaces. This dissertation discusses the use of high-intensity ultrasound in the synthesis of new ionic liquids, group 14 network polymers, and the potassium intercalation compound C8K.; Ionic liquids are organic salts that are liquids at or near room temperature. They have gained recent popularity as a potential alternative to conventional solvents. A new family of ionic liquids, based upon tetrahydrothiophene was synthesized. Characterization and properties of this family of ionic liquids will be discussed.; Group 14 network polymers are inorganic polymers with the formula (RM) n, where M = C, Si, Ge, or Sn and R is an organic side group. These polymers have shown potential uses as precursors for SiC, as well as a negative photoresist in the formation of semiconductors. A unique method of synthesis of these polymers will be discussed as well as the possible synthesis of the first ultrasonically produced polystannynes. A brief discussion of the structure of network polymers will be included.; The potassium intercalation compound C8K is a bronze-colored pyrophoric solid. It has been used as a one and two electron reducing agent. The structure of C8K involves the placement of potassium atoms between sheets of graphite. C8K is normally synthesized in a solid state reaction that takes up to several hours to run to completion. A unique solution state method will be discussed involving the use of ultrasound that takes only three minutes. |
