Research: Supramolecular Chemistry

Supramolecular Chemistry concerns the synthesis and study of large molecules (host molecules) that loosely, and reversibly, combine with other smaller molecules or ions (guests) to produce molecular assemblies. These assemblies are usually of nanoscale dimensions and in certain ways resemble naturally occurring enzymes.

These assemblies involve molecules such as cyclen-based container hosts, molecular capsules and cages, and crown ether based systems. They are being investigated with a view to:

• Removing smaller, perhaps toxic, molecules from their immediate environment. (link 1, 2 )
• Sensing the presence of the smaller molecules or ions by including a small portion of them in the host in such a way that their presence and concentration is signalled by a change in colour or fluorescence of the host. (link 1, 2 )
• Altering the physical characteristics of a surface by altering the host-guest interactions of adjacent surface bound molecules. (link 2, 3, 4)

1. Prof K P Wainwright
2. Dr M R Johnston
3. Dr N H Voelcker
4. Dr J Mitchell
 

Back to Main Areas of Research Interest

Top of page