Research Opportunity Number: CHE-05

Project Title: Photothermally induced cobalt-mediated radical polymerization

Project Summary: Inspired by the photothermal conversion effect of chlorophyll in natural processes and other synthetic analogs, including porphyrins, we aim to establish a new approach in molecular photothermal catalysis using cobyrinate, a vitamin B12 derivative, with dual functionality in catalyzing radical polymerization. We present that the structural flexibility of cobyrinate facilitates efficient photothermal conversion upon visible light absorption in concert with its dual catalytic function in mediating organometallic radical polymerization reactions.

Student Roles and Responsibilities: The student is expected to maintain good communication with student mentor, follow good safety practices, keep a good laboratory notebook, be enthusiastic, be able to do some literature review, and prepare an end-of-summer presentation of work.

Additional Considerations: Start and end dates are flexible, but the student should be available: at least 10 hours per week in lab

Department/Institute: Chemistry

Faculty Sponsor: Erin Stache

Participation Dates: 6/16/2024 to 8/23/2024

Stipend Offered: $0

Number of Internships Available: 0-1

Application Deadline: March 15, 2024, midnight eastern daylight time