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Stony Brook University

Nanotechnology Research Projects


Nanotechnology Research Projects
The technology revolution is getting smaller...

Nanotechnology, science and engineering at the scale of individual atoms and molecules, gives new
meaning to the idea that small is beautiful. The potential of nanoscale devices offers us a vision of
miniaturized biomendical implants not only patrolling our arteries as an early warning system, but also
delivering drugs as needed in situ; sensors detecting and reporting evidence of anything from toxic
materials in shipping containers to changes in air quality to traffic delays; and the smart home,
smart office building and smart city. But this is the end of the story. Getting there is an exciting
journey, for another of the beauties of nanotechnology is that, without a single addition to the periodic
table, familiar materials become things rich and strange. Gold, for example, is one of the more stable
elements in nature, yet at the nanoscale it is one of the most active: small is also new. To realize the
vast promise of nanotechnology, researchers must first understand the properties and behavior of these
materials in order to develop the astonishing range of potential applications.
These studies require contributions from many disciplines to move the most quickly from basic research
to commercialization. Stony Brooks strong programs in materials science, the engineering disciplines,
physics and chemistry illuminate basic properties and fabricate and test engineered materials and new
devices, the mathematical sciences and computer science model structure and behavior, and biomedi-
cine, biomedical engineering, the life and marine sciences explore the significance of nanotechnology
for living things. The results of these inquiries range across the broad spectrum of nanotechnology, from
gene and DNA sequencing to applications for clean energy to tissue engineering. Stony Brook University
researchers not only excel in pushing the technology frontier forward, but have built a cooperative
industry network, where corporate researchers work side by side with university faculty and students to
perfect potentially marketable new technologies. Nanoscale devices currently being developed at Stony
Brook include hybrid CMOS-nanowire semiconductor chips able to deliver the same computing power at
one-tenth the size (recently prototyped by HP researchers), implantable drug delivery systems and
internal sensors tracking the condition of jet engines. These and the many other efforts described in this
brochure, involve collaboration with Brookhaven National Laboratory and the private sector regional,
statewide, national and international. Guided by partnerships these projects address leading edge
science and technology issues, culminating in the transfer of new technologies to commercial
application, disseminating life-saving and life-improving technologies while creating new means for
competitive advantage and new economic assets.
The projects and programs described here are a modest representation of the depth and breadth of Stony
Brooks commitment to the research in the field of Nanotechnology, and we invite you to take a look.

Gail Habicht Yacov Shamash


Vice President for Research Vice President for Economic Development and
Dean, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences

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Contents
Nanotechnology at Stony Brook Nanotechnology in Materials
BNL Center for Functional Nanomaterials ............4 Tissue Engineering............................................15
Ethics and Nanotechnology .................................5 Nanostructured Thin Silicon..............................15
New Atomic Force Microscope.............................5 The Structure of Several
Natural Nanomaterials ......................................16
Nanotechnology in Biology
High Throughput Ultra-sensitive Modeling Dissipative Mechanisms
Gene and DNA Sequencing ................................6 in Nanoscale Systems ......................................16
Development of Biologically Oxide Nanomaterials for Energy Applications......16
Active Nanocomposites Using Human Risks of Introducing Nanomaterials
Blood Coagulation Protein ...................................6 to the Clotting and Inflammatory Systems ..........17
Gene Regulation and Biological Micro/Nano Mechanics: Studies of
Pattern Formation...............................................6 Sandwich Foam Composites ..............................17
Single Molecule Enzymology: Polymer-Assisted Formation
A Field Trap Apparatus........................................7 of Nanostructured Transition
Modeling of Bio-molecules ..................................7 Metal Clusters and Crystals ...............................17
Site-Specific Gene Therapy
for Myyocardial Angioensis ..................................8
Nanotechnology in Electronics
Lab-On-A-Chip .................................................18
High Resolution Membrane
Structure from Fluorescence ...............................8 Extremely Low-Power Hybrid
Silicon/Nanoelectronic Circuits ..........................18
Structure & Dynamics in Colloidal
Polyelectrolyte-Surfactant Complexes ...................9 Hybrid CMOS/Nanoelectronic
(CMOL) Circuits ............................................18
Electrostatically Driven Self-Assembly ..................9
Electrostatic Potentials & Biological Membranes ...10 Nanotechnology in Chemical Sensing
Carbon Nanotube and Nanodot Nanotechnology and Chemical Sensing ..............20
Self-assembled Layers ......................................10 Selective Electronic Noses for Medical
Nanoscale Control Of Biological Phenomena ......11 and Homeland Security Applications..................20
The Interaction of Cells with Nanoparticles ........11 Nanotechnology in Energy
Environmental Nanotechnologies for
Nanotechnology in Medicine Clean Energy Applications.................................21
Nanostructured Materials for Bioseparation,
Drug Delivery and Biosensors ............................12 Molecular Engineering, the Next-
Early Noninvasive Detection of Colon Generation Gas Separation Technology ...............21
Cancer Recurrence Using Microsensors..............12 Nanofibrous Membranes for
Opportunities for Applied Energy Applications ..........................................22
Nanotechnology in Medical Practice ..................12 High-Flux Low-Fouling Membranes for
Long-term Biocompatibility ...............................12 Bilge-Water Filtration ........................................22
Synthetic Viral Genome Design Novel Sensors for Harsh-Environment
for Rapid Vaccine Development .........................13 Energy Generation ............................................23
Electrospinning of Hyaluronan Scaffolds ............13 Instrumentation Development on
Multi-Scaled Scattering for
Targeted Delivery ..............................................13
Bio-Molecular Solutions ....................................23
Angiogenesis Induced by a Biodegradable
Nanoparticle VEGF DNA Delivery System ...........14
Nanomechanical Properties of
BiologicalTissue and its Application
in Regenerative Medicine..................................14
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Nanotechnology at Stony Brook
BNL Center for
Functional Nanomaterials
Emilio Mendez

The Center for Functional The capabilities at the CFN avail- 5) Optical spectroscopy: CW and
Nanomaterials (CFN) at able to staff/external users are ultrafast spectroscopy tools for
Brookhaven National Laboratory arranged into seven major facilities: the study of optical processes,
(BNL) represents a major resource 1) Materials synthesis: Chemical and their dynamics, in nanoma-
for Stony Brook Universitys nan- vapor deposition and other syn- terials, down to single molecules
otechnology program. The CFN is a thesis methods for the growth of 6) Dedicated beamline at the
user-oriented research center that nanowires and quantum dots; NSLS: Especially designed for
has its own scientific program and biofunctionalization of nano- small- and large-angle x-ray
at the same time offers broad objects and surfaces scattering and ideally suited for
access to its state-of-the art facili- the study of soft materials and
2) Nanofabrication: Nanopattern-
ties through a vigorous external interfaces
ing via optical, electron-beam
users program. As a premier user
and nanoimprint lithography; 7) Theory & computation: Staff
facility for conducting interdiscipli-
wet or reactive-ion etching, and computational tools direct-
nary nanoscience research, the
focused ion-beam, thin-film ed to understanding the forma-
CFN serves as a focal point and
deposition by evaporation and tion and structure of nanoscale
enabler of advanced materials
sputtering for materials pro- materials and associated elec-
study. Together with the National
cessing and device fabrication tronic, optical and chemical
Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS),
in a class-100 facility phenomena
and, in the future, the NSLS-II,
these facilities complement each 3) Proximal probes: An array of (DOE, NSF, NIH)
other to enable the nanoscale revo- scanning probe tunneling and
lution. The synergy among these atomic force microscopies for
world-class facilities, with Stony advanced surface and interface
Brook and Brookhavens scientific analysis
staff working collaboratively with 4) Electron microscopy: Most
university, industrial and govern- advanced transmission electron
ment laboratory researchers, offers microscopy that, in addition to
unique opportunities for break- imaging, allows the study of
throughs in nanoscience and nan- electronic, magnetic and optical
otechnology research. properties at the atomic level

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Ethics and Nanotechnology New Atomic Force
Shmuel Einav Microscope
Steve Smith
We are quickly approaching the We are investigating the conver-
technological ability to fabricate gence of nanotech, biotech, infor- The Center of Structural Biology is
machines and devices that can mation technology and cognitive developing, together with LifeAFM
manipulate items at the atomic ability, on social issues, ethical Inc., a new atomic force micro-
level, as well as developing molec- behavior and privacy. We are plan- scope that has significantly better
ular based computers and robots ning to integrate ethical issues in resolution than the currently avail-
and treating diseases at their our nanotech activities, and pro- able. Several collaborative projects
inception. While it is not difficult duce ethical guidelines. Our nano- are in progress that demonstrates
to see the benefits of nanotechnol- ethics activities are aimed in three the capability of the instrument. As
ogy, many can observe the risks in different directions: a result we expect that our tech-
developing creation power assem- a) awareness within research and nology will set the standard for
blages and components. We have development initiatives; atomic force microscope. The tech-
begun to explore the health and nology would be very appropriate
b) devising opportunities for open
environmental impacts of for any initiative in nanoscience
and genuine discussions with
Nanotechnology. Other ethical and nanotechnology, and strongly
members of the university com-
issues stem from increasing diag- highlights a unique capability at
munity and the public and
nostic power of cellular medicine. Stony Brook. (NCRR)
Eric Drexler, Nanotechnology best c) education in our graduate
known visionary, claimed that the programs.
true power of Nanotechnology is in (CEAS)
molecular manufacturing. We are
looking into the potential danger of
nanomaterials to health and the
environment. We are on one hand
encouraged by the ability of nano-
particles to cross the blood-brain
barrier and thus benefit drug deliv-
ery to the brain, but on the other
hand may present serious work-
place dangers and the level of
deployment.

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Nanotechnology in Biology
High Throughput Gene Regulation and
Ultra-sensitive Gene and Biological Pattern Formation
DNA Sequencing
John Reinitz
V.B. Gorfinkel
We are engaged in a long term proj- The Gene Circuit method has four
The main goal of the project is to ect to characterize the dynamics parts:
bring our novel DNA sequencing (physiology) of the segment deter-
instrument from the research stage mination process and control of 1) Construct a theoretical model,
transcription in the fruit fly
via the development stage to the 2) obtain gene expression data,
{Drosophila melanogaster} by
pilot project testing stage. The 3) fit the model to the data by
means of an integrated approach
instrument development will be large scale numerical optimiza-
that utilizes experiment, computa-
carried out at Stony Brook, and tion, and mathematics. The major tion, and
sequencing technology develop- goal of our work is to achieve an 4) learn new biology from the
ment will be carried out at our integrative understanding of the model. In addition to shedding
Health Science Center (HSC) and segment determination process as new light on fundamental bio-
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. an emergent property of a network logical problems, we have
(NYSTAR, NIH) of genes, a copy of which is pres- developed new algorithms in
ent in each of many cells. We are support of points 2 and 3
also engaged in making models of
above.
transcriptional control which are
designed to predict the physiologi-
cal action and expression patterns With respect to expression data,
of modular enhancers from knowl- these include new methods of
Development of Biologically edge of their constituent binding image segmentation, registration,
Active Nanocomposites sites. Both problems are being classification, and background
Using Human Blood approached using an approach removal. These data have been
Coagulation Protein called Gene Circuits. placed on the web in a modern
bioinformatics database. With
Jolyon Jesty
respect to large scale optimization,
we have developed both a new par-
The major goal of this exploratory
allel simulated annealing algorithm
study is to characterize interac-
as well a new Lagrangian Optimal
tions between blood coagulation
proteins and nanomaterials. Steepest Descent optimizer. (NIH)
Bionanocomposites will be pre-
pared comprised of a nanomaterial
and a major element of the human
clotting system. The initial focus
will be on polymeric nanofibers
prepared by electro spinning in the
presence of either fibrinogen or
platelet microparticles. Inter-
actions between the nanoparticles
and the blood will be at the molec-
ular level through SEM, surface
plasmon resonance, and atomic
force microscope. (NIH)

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Nanostructured Materials for Modeling of Bio-molecules
Single Molecule Enzymology: Yuefan Deng and James Glimm
A Field Trap Apparatus
Stuart McLaughlin
A prototype apparatus has been The central problem for molecular
The long-term objective is to devel- constructed to demonstrate proof- dynamics (MD) simulations of pro-
op technology and instrumentation of- principle and used to study tein structure is the disparity
for measuring the activity of single PLC-delta. Specific aim 1 is to between time scales for atomic
enzyme molecules that change the construct a new apparatus at Stony vibrations and those for conforma-
charge of their membrane-bound Brook that will be capable of tional changes. Typical time scales
substrates, e.g. lipases, kinases detecting hydrolysis of 10-100 for conformational changes are not
and phosphatases. Combining PIP2 by a single PLC on a bead, known, but have been estimated as
microelectrophoresis and laser trap initially containing 10,000 PIP2, of the order of a micro sec. The
technologies, the field/trap appara- with a time resolution of 0.1-1.0 time step in an MD all atom simu-
tus uses the principle of the sec. Specific Aim 2 is to expand lation is of the order of a femtosec,
Millikan oil drop experiment: a sil- the field/trap approach by adding so that that billions of time steps
ica bead coated with phospholipid fluorescence correlation spec- may be needed. This simple fact
bilayer replaces the oil drop and troscopy (fcs) capability, which will illustrates the central difficulty in
tightly focused laser beam replaces enable simultaneous measurement the direct all atom simulation of
gravity. When an AC field is applied of the fluorescence signal from a structural biology. We have devel-
to the coated bead in a salt solu- single enzyme and its activity. The oped new tools applicable to a spe-
tion, the electrophoretic force dis- field/trap approach will be applied cial purpose computer to be locat-
places it from its equilibrium posi- to study enzymes of great biologi- ed at BNL, which allow the all
tion in the laser trap. The displace- cal and medical importance: PLC- atom simulation of molecular
ment, measured with a fast quad- beta isoforms that produce two
dynamics for a greatly extended
rant diode is a proportional to the second messengers when activated
time period, up to 10 micro sec.
number of charged lipids (e.g. by G proteins; the lipid kinase
This algorithm will allow explo-
phosphatidylinositol, 4,5-biphos- PI3K, which produces another
ration of new regimes of biology in
phate, IPI2) on the outer leaflet of class of second messengers that
the binding of proteins, and their
the bead. When a solution contain- have been implicated in cancer;
biological functions. (BNL)
ing enzyme (e.g. phospholipase C, and PTEN, a lipid phosphatase
PLC) flows past the bead, the pro- that is a highly mutated clinically
teins adsorb to the surface and important tumor suppressor. (NIH)
change the charge on the bead
(e.g. hydrolyze trivalent PIP2
to form the neutral lipid
diacylglycerol).

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Site-Specific Gene Therapy High Resolution Membrane
for Myyocardial Angioensis Structure from Fluorescence
Weiliam Chen Erwin London

The research and development of The goal of this project will be to For this reason, biologically impor-
genetic delivery for treatment of continue studies of the structure tant ceramide-rich rafts will be
ischemic heart disease is the focus and function of lipid rafts: ordered studied in model systems and cells
of many investigations. However sphingolipid and cholesterol-rich to define how they differ from ordi-
current techniques of gene delivery membrane domains found in mam- nary rafts in terms of properties
are inefficient and very limited in malian and other eukaryotic cells. and protein interactions. To gain
scope. The objective of the pro- Among other functions, rafts are additional insights into the princi-
posed studies is to develop a implicated in sorting of proteins ples of raft formation, various small
biodegradable polymer-based DNA and lipids between membranes, molecules with raft-promoting and
delivery system for sustained signal transduction, and some raft-destabilizing behaviors will be
release of vascular endothelial types of bacterial and viral infec- studied in model membranes and
growth factor (VEGF) to promote tions. Previous studies in this proj- cells. As part of these studies, the
revascularization in ischemic ect, as part of a (continuing) col- functional significance of the
myocardium. Specifically, the laboration with the lab of Dr. known raft-destabilizing effects of
applicant proposes to: encapsulate Deborah Brown (Stony Brook), polyene antibiotics will be studied
DNA in small nanometer diameter established some of the basic prin- in both model membranes and
particles with a poly-lactic-polygly- ciples explaining how sphin- cells. The interaction of proteins
colic acid co-polymer, assess the in golipids, sterols and certain pro- with rafts will be studied to define
vitro delivery mechanism of teins form rafts. New fluorescence the relationship between protein
nanoparticles using beta -galac- and fluorescence quenching meth- structure and raft affinity.
tosidase as a model reporter gene, ods allowing detection of Transmembrane, lipid-anchored
and then finally to evaluate the nanoscale rafts with full control and cholesterol-binding proteins
efficacy of VEGF gene transfer in a over raft composition, combined will be compared. Sterol analogs
rat cardiac injection model. These with previously developed spectro- found to support raft formation to
experiments may help establish scopic and biochemical tech- different degrees in the last grant
the feasibility of using this delivery niques, will be used to define sev- period will be used to define the
system for gene therapy. (NIH- eral of the still mysterious rules nature of protein sterol binding
NHLBI) controlling lipid and protein partic- specificity. Whether proteins inter-
ipation in rafts. The basis of raft act differently with ordinary and
formation in the sphingolipid-poor ceramide-rich rafts will also be
plasma membrane inner leaflet will determined. Finally, the degree to
be studied in model membrane which proteins can regulate raft
systems. Raft-forming behavior of formation will be studied. (NIH)
biosynthetic precursors of choles-
terol will be studied to help define
how diseases blocking steps in
cholesterol biosynthesis (e.g.
Smith-Lemli-Opitz disease) may be
related to deleterious changes in
raft behavior. Ceramide displaces
sterols from rafts.

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Structure & Dynamics in Electrostatically Driven
Colloidal Polyelectrolyte- Self-Assembly
Surfactant Complexes Helmut Strey
Ben Chu, C. Burger,
M. Hadjiargyrou The project is aimed to investigate The project will investigate electro-
the role of electrostatic forces in statically self-assembled materials.
Experiments involve the synthesis the assembly of biological materi- In particular, we will focus on com-
of multi-functional copolymers als such as proteins, DNA conden- plexes of charged objects (mem-
with different architecture, chain sation inside sperm heads, and for- branes, cylinders and spheres) with
length and chain ratio, as well as mation of arterial plaque. The pro- oppositely charged polyelectrolytes
studies of the complex formation posed research is strongly motivat- (PE) or tri-block copolymers (PE-
with DNA in both organic and ed by the richness of materials neutral-PE). With this strategy, we
aqueous media. Graft tri-functional found in nature often displaying expect to create functional hybrid
copolymers based on chitosan and superior mechanical properties and materials from building blocks that
tri-arm block copolymers com- functionalities. Under this project, are taken from biology (peptides
posed of polyethylene glycol, poly- biological molecules (peptides and and proteins) and synthetic poly-
lactide and poly(L-lysine) have proteins) will be combined with mer chemistry. By systematically
already demonstrated their feasi- synthetic macromolecules (specific varying the interaction strength
bility in initial studies. The copoly- electrolytes and copolymers) to and range between building blocks
mer composition will be controlled create novel functional hybrid we will identify conditions for long-
by changing the reaction condi- materials with superior properties range order. The results of this
tions and feed ratio. In order to and performance. The results of work will not only impact the basic
endow the copolymer with a pH- this work impact the basic under- understanding of biological self-
responsive property, a novel copoly- standing of biological self-assem- assembly processes, but also
mer, which can transform bly processes and contribute to through extension to material sci-
amphiphilic polycations to polyan- applications in the biotechnology ence contribute to applications of
ions, will be synthesized. The com- and pharmaceutical industries. Our self-assembled nanostructured
plex formation between DNA and
project is highly interdisciplinary materials in drug delivery, tissue
copolymers, and the supra-molecu-
and will train students and post- engineering, bioseparation
lar structure, will be investigated
doctoral researchers in the increas- processes, biosensor materials,
mainly by laser light scattering,
transmission electron microscopy ingly complex interdisciplinary novel filter materials, as well as
(TEM), synchrotron small angle work in science, engineering and fuel cells. The interdisciplinary
X-ray scattering (SAXS) and medicine. Our team members will nature of the project will produce
electrophoresis. (NSF) acquire skills in state-of-the art students and postdoctoral
microscopy, synchrotron X-ray scat- researchers that have a rigorous
tering at national laboratories, and science background, are independ-
biochemical methods to prepare ent thinkers, and have an under-
them for careers in academia, gov- standing of intellectual property
ernment and industry. and real world applications; all
those aspects being highly valued
by industry as well as academia.
(NSF)

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Electrostatic Potentials and Carbon Nanotube and
Biological Membranes Nanodot Self-assembled
Stuart McLaughlin Layers
V. Samuilov, C. Clayton,
The long term objective is to PCS, FRET, fluorescence stop flow, M. Dudley, M. Rafailovich,
understand how physical factors and other measurements will be J. Sokolov
(electrostatics, diffusion, reduction used to determine peptide affinity
of dimensionality) produce a flow for membranes, Ca/CaM, and
A promising nanotechnology-relat-
of information through calcium/ PIP2. The biological consequences
ed work at the Sensor CAT is led by
phosphoinositide second messen- of these interactions will be inves-
Dr. Vladimir Samuilov (MSE
ger systems. Phosphatidylinositol tigated in collaborations with cell
Dept). His research is based on the
4,5-bisphosphate, PIP2, is the biologists. The recent identifica-
proprietary platform technology of
source of three second messengers tion of three such clusters on
self-assembling of uniform mono-
and is involved in a wide range of gravin illustrates the power of the
layers of functionalized carbon
membrane-related phenomena, combined biophysical/cell biology
nanotubes (patent applications are
such as the activation of ion approach.
pending). Over the last 5 years, the
channels or enzymes, endocytosis, Second, to use fluorescence meas- following directions have been
and exocytosis. How does PIP2 do urements to determine the kinetics investigated:
so much? The working hypothesis and life time of Ca/CaM binding to
is that unstructured clusters of 1) Carbon nanotube based sen-
reconstituted peptides correspon-
basic/hydrophobic residues on sors. Gas sensors for H2, CO2,
ding to the basic/hydrophobic jux-
MARCKS and other proteins act as H20. (SBDC, SBU Sensor CAT,
tamembrane + transmembrane
reversible PIP2 buffers: they SPIR)
regions of intrinsic membrane pro-
produce a local positive electro- teins. Third, to determine how 2) Carbon nanotube coating for
static potential that sequesters the unstructured basic clusters provide heat dissipation. (SBDC, SBU
polyvalent acidic lipid. Upon a sufficient specificity for PIP2 to Sensor CAT, SPIR)
local increase in the level of Ca2+, target proteins such as the sperm 3) Electrospinning technique for
calcium/calmodulin (Ca/CaM) factor PLC to the plasma mem- nanosensor application. (SBDC,
binds to the cluster, releasing the brane. Fourth, to test the postulate SBU Sensor CAT, SPIR)
PIP2. Six specific aims will explore that GAP-43/neuromodulin acts as
this hypothesis. 4) Self-assembled 2-D arrays of
a reversible PIP2 sink in the axon- metal nanocrystals and the fab-
First, a simple coloring scheme al growth cones of neurons. Fifth, rication of highly ordered arrays
and peptide binding measure- to show that the basic/hydrophobic of metallic nanoparticles.
ments will be used to identify peptides diffuse more rapidly than (SBDC, SBU Sensor CAT, SPIR)
basic/hydrophobic clusters on lipids when bound to membranes
medically important proteins. This that lack PIP2, preventing seques- 5) DNA Separation and Single
approach has allowed the PI to tration of other lipids such as phos- DNA Molecule Sequencing
identify regions of interest on phatidylserine and cholesterol. using a nanoscale integrated
receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK), G Sixth, to test a model for how device. (NSF, SBDC)
protein coupled receptors, and basic/hydrophobic regions of pro- 6) Novel method of DNA arrays
scaffolding proteins that are impor- teins (e.g. MARCKS, gravin, RTKs) electrical readout on nanos-
tant in cancer and as drug targets. may nucleate the formation of cho- tructures. Collaboration with
lesterol-enriched rafts. (NIH) BNL (Center for Nanomaterilas
and Bio Department) and with
Cat for Biotechnology

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Nanoscale Control Of
Biological Phenomena
Richard A.F. Clark, Miriam
Rafailovich, Nadine Pernodet

Understanding the construct of properties can be varied by the targeting of therapeutic and imag-
actual tissue in vivo requires the spacing and length of the polyeth- ing agents to cells with specific
ability to arrange cells in three ylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) phenotypes such as cancer cells
dimensions on a scaffold that can cross linker. and infected cells is presently lim-
allow for tissue regeneration. In Furthermore, cell adhesion and ited to monoclonal antibodies gen-
this section the fundamental migration can be facilitated by the erated to have binding sites for
issues are incorporation of fibronectin, colla- specific cell surface epitopes.
1) Engineering porosity on various gen, fibrin or other proteins. The Despite humanization of these
length scale to enable cell pro- effect on micro scale cell morphol- murine molecules by substitution
liferation or differentiation as ogy by the nanoscale variation in of human antibody structure for all
well as molecular diffusion mechanical and chemical proper- but the binding site, all widely
enabling for genomic transvec- ties can be profound. The role of used therapeutic antibodies are
tion, PH, and control of each component can be studied immunogenic. The resulting toxici-
electrolyte. independently by fluorescent GFP ty limits repeated use and renders
2) Incorporate chemical hetero- transvection of the cells and in situ them unsatisfactory for routine
geneity that allows for integrin observation of the cell migration. screening for disease. We therefore
binding which enables cell (NSF, NIH) propose the following:
mobility. Here multiple length 1) A systematic study will first be
scales must be addressed since performed where we will try to
the proper placement of these isolate only the effect of shape
sites must be known in order to and dimension on toxicity.
control the cell diffusion rates The Interaction of Cells with 2) We will experiment with differ-
for applications such as wound Nanoparticles ent mechanisms for enabling
healing without scarring. specificity and efficient delivery
Richard A.F. Clark,
3) Design mechanical rigidity so while minimizing toxcity. For
M. Rafailovich, Nadine Pernodet
as to induce the appropriate example, nanoparticles can be
cell morphology and allow suffi- derivatized with epitopes for
cient elasticity to expose Due to their large surface to vol- cells of particular phenotypes,
binding domains required for ume ratio nanoparticles i.e. metal- which would be immunological-
migration. lic or dendritic are increasingly ly non-reactive.
Several approaches will be used being used for drug delivery, imag- In order to determine the location
here. Various chemical modifica- ing, and therapy. These nanoparti- of the epitope on the cell mem-
tions are being employed to pre- cles are commonly produced from brane, the particles will be
pare films made of Hyaluronic acid materials considered non-toxic to attached to an AFM tip which will
(HA), a naturally occurring biopoly- cells plated on macroscopic sur- then be used to provide a force dis-
mer, which have found numerous faces. Yet when particulates are tance map of the cell surface.
applications in wound healing and produced from the same material, Through this mechanism we hope
as anti-adhesive barriers following the much smaller size allows them to be able to identify specific loci
surgical procedures. One such to penetrate the cell membrane that will differentiate between nor-
modification involves the formula- where their accumulation can mal or cancerous cell types. (NSF,
tion of thiolated HA (HA-DTPH) interfere with cell function and NIH)
hydrogels, where the mechanical become toxic. Furthermore, in vivo

11
Nanotechnology in Medicine
Materials for Early Noninvasive Detection Opportunities for Applied
Bioseparation, Drug Delivery of Colon Cancer Recurrence Nanotechnology in
and Biosensors Using Nanosensors Medical Practice
Helmut H. Strey Basil Rigas Mary (Molly) Frame

Nature's ability to assemble simple Colon cancer is one of the leading Nanotechnology has the immense
molecular building blocks into fatal malignancies in the western potential to positively impact
highly ordered materials, such as world. While surgical removal of health care within the next decade.
those found in cell membranes, Although nanoscience as a field is
the primary tumor is often feasible,
cell nuclei, cytoskeleton, cartilage, largely in the discovery phase,
recurrence remains a significant
or bone presents many fascinating many areas of nano-based research
problem and to a large extent it
and unanswered questions. We are at Stony Brook University and
determines the outcome of the
interested in how to tune the inter- Brookhaven National Laboratories
patient. We propose to use
are close to a translational step.
actions of water-soluble building nanosensors to aid in the early
Broad areas of research include
blocks so as to induce their self- detection of cancer recurrence in
targeted drug delivery vehicles,
assembly into useful microstruc- the colon. The principle of this scaffolding for organ specific tis-
tures much needed for the next approach is the following: During sue engineering, biosensor lab-on-
generation of controlled drug deliv- surgery for tumor excision sensors a-chip for molecular detection or
ery, biosensors and DNA sequenc- are implanted in the remaining DNA separation, and the long-term
ing applications. Such materials, colon that detect the levels of an effects of nanomaterials (either
because of their well-ordered analyte, such as CEA that signifies natural or engineered). (NIH)
porous structure, will allow more recurrence. Most sensors will be at
efficient molecular separation and the anastomosis site, which is the
drug delivery. The biosensors most frequent site of recurrence.
should be able to quantitatively At certain time intervals the sensor
detect and measure analyte con- is activated remotely to obtain a
centrations at hormonal levels. reading of the levels of the analyte
Long-term Biocompatibility
(NSF, DOE) of interest in the colonic mucosa. Mary (Molly) Frame
If the result indicates recurrence,
the colon is explored either via In conjunction with many of the
endoscopy or other appropriate projects described above, ongoing
means. (NIH) efforts examine the effect of chron-
ic exposure to natural or nanoengi-
neered materials. This includes ver-
ification of whole animal and cellu-
lar compatibility with quantum dots
(Drs. I Cohen, P Brink), and with
engineered microspheres (Drs. W
Chen, M Frame). Further cell cul-
ture studies examine the effects of
nanoengineered scaffolding on cell
viability and differentiation (Drs. M
Hadjiargyrou, M Frame, E
Entcheva). Important environmen-
tal studies examining the molecular
basis for contamination by natural
or nanoengineered systems are
underway by several groups (Drs. G
Halada, M Schoonen, S Tsirka and
others). (NIH)

12
Synthetic Viral Genome Electrospinning of Targeted Delivery
Design for Rapid Vaccine Hyaluronan Scaffolds Mary (Molly) Frame
Development Ben Chu
Steven Skiena and
Targeted drug or stem cell delivery
Eckard Wimmer
Tissue engineering technologies is the goal for wound healing, can-
offer the promise to treat a wide cer treatments, cardiac repair or
Based on our prior experience with variety of injuries and diseases. diabetes treatment. Specific
the de novo genome synthesis of The project aims at investigating research projects related to wound
attenuated polioviruses (Cello et al cardiovascular tissues, where there healing examine biodegradable
2002, Mueller et al 2006) we will has been only limited progress microspheres or hydrogel bandages
use new computer based algo- towards regenerating complex (Dr. W Chen), novel extracellular
rithms to design and de novo syn- matrix structures vital to tissue matrix hydrogels (Dr. R Clark) and
thesize viral genomes. These will homeostasis. A part of the problem polymeric nanocomposites and
encode exactly the same proteins has been that cardiovascular tis- electrospun materials with imbed-
as wild-type viruses, but by using sues are far more complex than ini- ded antibiotics (Drs. B Chu, B
alternative, synonymous codons, tially envisioned and have a capac- Hsiao, M Hadjiargyrou). Targeted
we will alter codon bias, codon pair ity for self-repair that is far less cancer treatments include the use
bias, RNA secondary structure, effective than tissue-engineering of caged substrates for matrix met-
dinucleotide content, and other principles demand. An outstanding alloproteases using nano-driven
parameters. Our past experience problem addressed by this study is imaging for long term monitoring
has shown that these coding-inde- to manufacture structurally- and (Dr. H Crawford). Quantum dots
pendent changes produce highly functionally-faithful vascular elas- (QD) are used to determine the fate
attenuated viruses, often due to tic matrices on demand. Elastin is of human mesenchymal stem cells
poor translation of proteins. By tar- crucial to maintaining native struc- (hMSCs) in cardiac repair by load-
geting an elementary function of tural configurations of tissues and ing the stem cells with QD, and
all viruses, namely protein transla- regulating cell signaling pathways monitoring their eventual differen-
tion, we hope to develop a very involved in morphogenesis, injury tiation (Drs. I Cohen, P Brink and
general method for predictably, response, and inflammation. others). Both cardiac myocytes and
safely, quickly and cheaply produc- Efforts will be made to regenerate vascular endothelial cells are found
ing attenuated viruses, which will lost elastin structures in vivo. with QD after several weeks
then be useful for making vac- Tissue engineered constructs have (Figure 1). (NIH)
cines. Initial development will take thus far been limited by the pro-
place in the very well understood gressive destabilization of tropoe-
model system poliovirus, but we lastin mRNA expression in adult
will move on to other viruses (e.g. vascular cells and the unavailabili-
influenza) where there is a medical ty of suitable scaffolding materials
application. (NSF, NIH) to provide the cellular cues neces-
sary to up-regulate elastin synthe-
sis. Our task is to regenerate
nanofibrous matrices that are
structurally- and functionally-faith- Figure 1. Rat hearts were injected with QD-hMSCs.
Fixed, frozen sections were cut transversely (as
ful mimics of native elastin. (NIH) shown in inset) at 10-m and mounted onto glass
slides. Sections were imaged for QD fluorescence
emission (655-nm) with phase overlay to visualize
tissue borders. Serial low power images were regis-
tered where white pixels depict the QD-positive
zones in the images. [Figure from: Rosen, et al., in
press, http://www.StemCells.com.]

13
Angiogenesis Induced by a Nanomechanical Properties
Biodegradable Nanoparticle of Biological Tissue and its
VEGF DNA Delivery System Application in Regenerative
Weiliam Chen Medicine
Yi-Xian Qin
Recent in vivo experiments have
Despite having been studied for and human will be studied using a
demonstrated that a biodegradable
quite some time, however, the nanomechanical assessment using
nanoparticle formulation intended
mechanical behavior of trabecular nanoindentation. In the prelimi-
for prolonged VEGF DNA delivery is
bone tissue is surprisingly difficult nary tests, the local variability is
capable of inducing angiogenesis
to understand. A large part of this thought to be quite important for
in hindlimb muscle 4, 12 and 18
stems from the fact that the tech- its influence on the apparent level
weeks after injection. This sus-
nology to study trabecular bones mechanical behavior in the tissue.
tained DNA delivery system will
tissue mechanical properties has This will provide further evidence
ensure the continual presence of
only relatively recently become that nano-scale property of biologi-
VEGF to facilitate the maturation
available in the form of nanoinden- cal tissue can provide information
of newly formed blood vessels and
ters adopted from traditional hard- for early diagnostic and treatment
thus their persistence. The VEGF
ness testing for geologic and mate- outcomes.
DNA microparticles will be used to
rials testing applications. The tra- Furthermore, the objective of this
induce angiogenesis in porcine
becular mineral concentration has study will also be to analyze the
chronic ischemic myocardium.
been previously shown to be con- respective effect of microstructure
(NSF)
stant throughout life such that the and material properties on the abil-
reduction in apparent modulus and ity of linear elastic FEM to assess
strength is due to loss of substance apparent mechanical behavior
without concomitant loss of tissue using trabecular bone samples
quality. with known apparent and nanome-
The purpose of this study is to gain chanical properties. The finite ele-
a preliminary understanding of ment solver chosen for this study
these properties and their interrela- was the relatively newly available
tionships. As such, trabecular tis- iterative solver packaged with the
sue and other biological tissues image processing language of the
from healthy and diseased animal Scanco CT systems. There are
two important benefits of this sys-
tem. In particular, this approach
can potentially be used for predict-
ing in vivo bone strength in the
future when in vivo CT becomes
available for human use. (NIH)

14
Nanotechnology in Materials
Tissue Engineering Nanostructured Thin Silicon
Mary (Molly) Frame, Emilia Charles Fortmann
Entcheva, Perena Gouma
This project is investigating the use
Established collaborations in the of nano-engineered silicon struc-
field of tissue engineering study tures for site specific pharmaceuti-
cardiac, vascular and bone scaf- cal delivery. This project spans the
folding for implantation. In addi- range from theoretical material
tion to cardiac repair in a whole engineering to actual material gen-
animal model (Figure 1), de novo eration. It involves an agent simu-
cardiac tissue engineering is exam- Figure 2. Spontaneous capillary network structure
lation of the life cycle that aban-
formed by human umbilical vein endothelial cells on
ined on micro-patterned topo- electrospun scaffolding. Cells are calcein (live, dons the deterministic rate equa-
graphical surfaces to understand green) and ethidium (dead, red) stained. Rapid tion approach to model various cel-
time to confluence is achieved by guiding endothe-
the relationship between cardiac lial cell growth patterns. [Image from: Rubenstein, lular cyclic systems (metabolic
signaling, contraction and the et al., in press, Microcirculation.] cycle) using independent, non-
interaction of the cells with their deterministic agents performing
patterned substrate (Dr. E Electrospun scaffolding is addi- the various interconnected: reac-
Entcheva). Using electrospun scaf- tionally being used as a hard tissue tions, diffusion, energy production
folding a template for de novo cap- growth template (bone) in which and feedback circuits. (Solar
illary network growth has been con- DNA or other bioactive molecules Physics Corp.)
structed (Figure 2, Drs. M Frame, are imbedded to enhance specific
P Gouma). Combining micropat- mitogenic activity (Dr. M
terned topographical cues and Hadjiargyrou and others). (NIH)
nanostamped chemical surface
modifications, in a novel bioassay
Risks of Introducing
chamber, this microvascular tissue
engineering project is capable of
Nanomaterials to the Clotting
creating autologous grafts for rapid and Inflammatory Systems
re-vascularization of wounds. Jolyon Jesty

We have particular expertise in the


area of clotting and inflammation.
Clotting: introducing foreign mate-
rials is clearly an enormous risk,
especially for activation of clotting
via the contact system. We can
measure activation of clotting by
different methods at least as well
as anyone else. Inflammation:
Nanomaterials are so small that
they will almost certainly get taken
up by endothelial cells (ECs), and
the ECs play a major role in the ini-
tiation of the inflammatory
response (involving the platelets as
well). Both ECs and platelets are
intimately tied in with the clotting
system. (NIH)

15
Micro/Nano Mechanics: The Structure of Several
Studies of Sandwich Foam Natural Nanomaterials
Composites Martin Schoonen
Fu-pen Chiang
Over the last few years we have
Sandwich foam composites are light prohibitive. Mean field theories, too, resolved the structure of several nat-
weight high strength structural are limited by their inability to cal- ural nanomaterials using total X-ray
materials. They are ideal materials culate partition functions or proba- scattering techniques. In essence,
for building high speed coastal bility distributions due to the com- we have been able to shed light on
patrol boats. This project investi- plexities of the nanostructured envi- the structure of several materials
gates the micro mechanical proper- ronment. Used in conjunction, how- that had been characterized as X-ray
ties of foam materials using a ever, these methods offer the possi- amorphous. The new structural
unique measuring technique called bility of bridging the gap between information allows us to better
Speckle Inter-ferometry with the meso and the nano scales. The understand reactivity, transforma-
Electron Microscopy which can pro- methodology that we plan to use is tions, interaction with contaminants
vide strain distribution in an area to use a series of models that oper- as well as other parameters. There
only a few microns in size. By mix- ate at increasingly larger length may be some future environmental
ing a small portion of nanoparticles scales. The principle is that the finer applications, but that has not been
into polymeric foam, the resulting grained models will provide the the focus at this point. The latest of
material has a higher stiffness and parameters for the more coarse these effort has led to a paper in
also retards flame. Studies are being grained models. We plan to start by Science. Michel FM, Ehm L, Antao
carried out on both the pure and the using MD simulations on detailed SM, Lee PL, Chupas PJ, Liu G,
nanophased foam materials. (ONR) systems. Potentials for the MD sim- Strongin DR, Schoonen MAA,
ulations will be determined from Phillips BL, Parise JB (2007) The
atomistic calculations on the filler structure of ferrihydrite, a nanocrys-
particles. These results will allow us talline material. Science 316:1726-
to formulate statistical mechanical 1729. (NSF)
models to investigate the thermody-
namic properties of polymer
Modeling Dissipative nanocomposites and determine con-
Mechanisms in ditions under which there is a perco-
Nanoscale Systems lating network of nanofiller particles.
Dilip Gersappe, George Stell Finally we will design a dynamic
and Phil Allen mean field model that will investi-
gate the effect of shear on the prop-
erties of the nanocomposite and also
Molecular dynamics simulations continuum mechanical models to
would seem to be the obvious com- study the effect of tensile strain in
putational method of choice with these systems. We also plan on
which to study the failure mecha- extending this methodology to more
nisms of these more complex poly- complex nanocomposite morpholo-
mer nanocomposites. When these gies such as nanofoams and
simulations are used in isolation, nanofibers. (NSF, NIH)
however, the exhaustive search
required to isolate the critical vari-
ables can become computationally

16
Oxide Nanomaterials for Polymer-Assisted Formation
Energy Applications of Nanostructured Transition
Stanislaus Wong Metal Clusters and Crystals
Ben Chu
We have been focused on several 2) A size- and shape-dependent
key nanoscience issues. We have a morphological transformation To produce nanostructured transi-
strong effort in the chemical func- was demonstrated during the tion metal clusters and crystals,
tionalization of carbon nanotubes. hydrothermal soft chemical like polyoxometallates and in par-
and a growing program in the syn- transformation, in neutral solu- ticular polyoxomolybdates, the role
thesis and characterization of tion, of titanate nanostructures of different reducing agents and
nanoscale metal oxide materials, into their anatase titania coun- different transition metals (like
related to energy applications. terparts. Specifically, protonic molybdenum and tungsten) start-
Examples include the following: lepidocrocite hydrogen titanate ing species and the nature of the
nanotubes with diameters of reduction-oxidation (redox) proces-
1) Three-dimensional, dendritic
~10 nm were transformed into sare investigated. A new approach
micron- scale spheres of alkali
exceptionally high-purity is being proposed in the nano-fab-
metal hydrogen titanate 1D
anatase nanoparticles with an rication of these clusters with
nanostructures (i.e.: nanowires
average size of 12 nm. emphasis on ordered inorganic
and nanotubes) have been gen-
Lepidocrocite hydrogen titanate nano-structures, by investigating
erated using a modified hydro
nanowires with relatively small the delicate control on the redox
thermal technique in the pres-
diameters (average diameter potential of oxidation-reduction
ence of hydrogen peroxide and
range of T 200 nm) were con- reactions for the reactive species
an alkali metal hydroxide solu-
verted into single-crystalline responsible for the final transition
tion. Sea-urchin-like assem-
anatase nanowires with relative- metal structures with nano-scale
blies of these 1D nanostruc-
ly smooth surfaces. Larger modifications. The proposed study
tures have been transformed
diameter (>200 nm) titanate aims to investigate more specifical-
into their hydrogen titanate ana-
nanowires were transformed ly the formation of cluster (e.g.,
logues (lepi docrocite HxTi2-
into analogous anatase polyoxomolybdates) using controls
x/4fx/4O4 (x~0.7, f: vacancy))
nanowire motifs, resembling on the redox potential, together
by neutralization as well as into
clusters of adjoining anatase with a range of other parameters,
their corresponding anatase
nanocrystals with perfectly par- such as the nature of the reducing
TiO2 nanostructured counter-
allel, oriented fringes. Our agent, pH, ionic strength, nature of
parts through a moderate high-
results indicate that as-synthe- ionic species, and the subsequent
temperature annealing dehydra-
sized TiO2 nanostructures pos- crystal growth in confined geome-
tion process without destroying
sessed higher photocatalytic try in the presence of polymers as
the 3D hierarchical structural
activity than the commercial a modulating agent so that a more
motif. The as-prepared hollow
titania precursors from whence generalized understanding can be
spheres of titanate and titania
they were derived. (DOE, Batelle) formulated, not only on existing
1D nanostructures have overall
diameters, ranging from 0.8 forms of polyoxomolybdates but
gm to 1.2 gm, while the inte- also leading toward new pathways
rior of these aggregates are vac- on the polymer-assisted formation
uous with a diameter range of of new inorganic structures. (DOE)
100 to 200 nm. We have
demonstrated that these assem-
blies are active photocatalysts
for the degradation of synthetic
Procion Red dye under UV light
illumination.

17
Nanotechnology in Electronics
Lab-On-A-Chip Extremely Low-Power Hybrid CMOS/Nanoelectronic
Mary (Molly) Frame, Hybrid Silicon/ (CMOL) Circuits
Helmut Strey, Perena Gouma, Nanoelectronic Circuits K. Likharev
Stanislaus Wong K. Likharev
The main focus of our work is the
Multiple approaches are currently We have proposed a new approach conceptual development, as well
being used to nanofabricate (dubbed CMOL) to the reduction as experimental and theoretical
biosensors or diagnostic chips. of power consumption in micro- studies of various aspects of future
Nanochannels guiding single electronics. In this approach, a sil- hybrid CMOS/Nanoelectronic
strand DNA were developed for icon chip is augmented by a simple (CMOL) Circuits for a broad
DNA hybridization and gene typing add-on nanowire circuit (cross- range of applications. Preliminary
(Dr. H Strey). Biocomposites for bar), with two-terminal nanode- calculations have shown that
selective chemical sensing were vices formed at each crosspoint. CMOL circuits may enable:
fabricated from a hybrid leu- (Reliable fabrication of nanode- terabit-scale memory chips and
coemeraldine-polyaniline; these vices of the required programma- embedded memories,
nano-noses detect minute ble diode functionality has
reconfigurable FPGA-like logic
gaseous pollutants (Dr. P Gouma). already been demonstrated by
circuits with a ~100X density
This lab has further developed a electronic industry in the context
advantage over similar CMOS
biosensor chip for detection of of their memory applications.) The
circuits, and
thrombosis (Dr. P Gouma). Other crossbar is connected to the semi-
biosensors include effective design conductor transistor base via a pin- mixed-signal circuits for
of chemical or biological catalysts based interface distributed all over advanced information process-
based on unique self assembly the chip area. Our simulations ing with unprecedented per-
properties and novel use of carbon have shown that digital CMOL cir- formance (up to 1020 elemen-
nanotubes (Dr. S Wong). Self cuits may reduce power consump- tary operations per cm2 per
assembly of gold-protein sheets are tion of semiconductor chips by at second), at manageable power
showing promise for use in detec- least two orders of magnitude (at consumption and high defect
tion of and deactivation of lethal the same performance) and thus tolerance.
bacteria, such as drug resistant contribute very significantly to
tuberculosis (Drs. H Li, J Hainfield, energy conservation. Our plan
L Qian, E Lymar). (NIH) include experimental demonstra-
tion, within the next few years, of
the first operational CMOL chips.
(AFOSR, DRO, MARCO, NSF)

Figure 3. A cryo-electron micrograph showing a


single layer of evenly spaced enzyme structures
(colorful "wheels") interspersed with gold
nanoparticles (magenta). [Image from:
http://www.bnl.gov/cfn/news/PRdisplay.asp?
prID=07-73]

18
The groups work, conducted with-
in a multi-disciplinary, SBU-led
collaboration, includes the follow-
ing components:
fabrication of novel, single-elec-
tron molecular devices (in col-
laboration with groups led by
Prof. Dilip Gersappe of Material
Sciences, Prof. Jim Lukens of
Physics and Astronomy, and
Andreas Mayr of Chemistry),
experimental study and theoret-
ical analysis of electron trans-
port through such molecules (in
collaboration with Prof. Phil
Allen of Physics and Astronomy
and the group led by Dr. Mark
Pederson of the Naval Research
Laboratory),
development of novel architec-
tures for CMOL circuits (in col-
laboration with Prof. Paul
Adams of Neurobiology and
Behavior, Dr. Jacob Barhen of
ORNL, and Dmitri Strukov of
HPL), and
experimental demonstration of
first CMOL circuits (in collabo-
ration with Prof Jim Lukens,
Prof. Michael Shur of RPI, Prof.
Wei Wang of Purdue/
Indianapolis, and industrial
partners).

(AFOSR, DTO, MARCO, NSF)

19
Nanotechnology in Chemical Sensing
Nanotechnology and Selective Electronic Noses
Chemical Sensing for Medical and Homeland
Perena Gouma Security Applications
Perena Gouma
The group has developed various
nanosensors utilizing single crystal This project involves the develop-
metal oxide nanowires and hybrid ment of advanced, selective
organic and inorganic systems for chemosensor arrays for the detec-
the detection of chemical as well tion of chemical\and biological
as Biological species. We have also warfare agents as well as for the
built electronic nose-type technolo- fabrication of sensing probes for
gies, comprised of small sets of breath analysis of pathogens. The
highly specific gas sensing ele- elements we use are nano-compos-
ments. Finally, we are using these ite metal oxides and bio-doped
sensors as occupancy sensors can materials. (NIH)
reduce energy use by as much as
45%. Improving energy efficiency
can reduce emissions that con-
tribute to global warming, mercury
contamination in lakes, acid rain,
and nuclear waste. (NIH)

20
Nanotechnology in Energy
Environmental Molecular Engineering, the
Nanotechnologies for Clean Next-Generation Gas
Energy Applications Separation Technology
Gary Halada Devinder Mahajan

To truly understand interactions 1) Optimizing radioactive clean-up Natural gas upgrading is a major
between the environment and nat- technologies through modeling challenge once gas fields are iden-
ural and man-made materials, it is the effect of electron transfer tified. Raw gas needs upgrading by
essential to understand reactions on uranium-organic complexes removal of gases such as CO2 and
at the nanoscale. It is at this level, 2) Using functionalized carbon N2 that are naturally found mixed
from single molecules to ultra-thin nanotubes in ultrasensitive with CH4. Our two distinct
films on surfaces, that structural electrochemical sensors approaches are as follows. In the
and chemical transformations first first approach, the molecularly
occur which affect critical environ- 3) Developing new safe and effec- imprinted polymer (MIP) mem-
mental processes, such as corro- tive technologies for remedia- branes are being produced using a
sion of advanced alloys, associa- tion of contaminated structures process based on rapid precipita-
tion of hazardous waste with soil or 4) Characterizing the interaction tion from a supercritical solution
buildings, and transformation of of toxic metals with biomacro- followed by vapor treatment and
radioactive materials by microbes. molecules to better understand UV photo polymerization. The
In addition, to create the next gen- the nature and fate of mixed material pore size is tuned to the
eration of materials and technolo- waste template vapor but without chemi-
gies to solve critical environmental 5) Studying the chelation of pollu- cal functionality to achieve high
problems we need to create new tants through state-of-the-art selectivity in natural gas purifica-
methodologies and research quantum mechanical molecular tion. In the second approach, poly-
partnerships that will provide the modeling and density function- mers such as polystyrene (PS) are
necessary combination of tools, al theory being modified with supercritical
software and knowledge for cross- CO2 to control the pore size of the
6) Using photochemical reactions
disciplinary problem-solving. polymer for enhancing gas separa-
on iron nanoparticles for envi-
Examples of our ongoing research tions. The goal is to identify poly-
ronmental remediation.
include: mer candidates for ultimate appli-
(NSF) cation in natural gas fields. (BNL,
(DOE)

21
Nanofibrous Membranes for High-Flux Low-Fouling
Energy Applications Membranes for
Ben Chu and Bilge-Water Filtration
Benjamin S. Hsiao Ben Chu

The project aims to investigate sev-


Our research group is currently The proposed research aims to
eral fundamental issues of a break-
focused on the development of design, develop and create new
through technology on high-flux
unique nanoscale fabrication nanostructured materials for ener-
loe-fouling water purification filters
methods, i.e., multiple-jet electro- gy storage device applications by
being developed at Stony Brook.
spinning and electro-blowing combining the multiple-jet elec-
This breakthrough technology is
processes, to produce nanofibrous tro-spinning/-blowing technology
based on a new concept of com-
membrane materials for industrial with novel chemical and physical
posite membrane design, involving
and biomedical applications. The pathways to prepare functional
(1) the replacement of convention-
existence of this platform technol- organic/inorganic nanocomposite
al flux-limited porous membrane
ogy now permits us to seriously membranes.
layer with a high flux non-woven
consider the great potential in its The new format should have nanofibrous support, containing an
unique ability to manipulate func- unique electrical conducting and asymmetric structure with inter-
tional materials at micro- and mechanical properties as well as connected void morphology, and
nano-length scales. The key inno- tailor-designed functionality, with (2) the coating of a very thin barri-
vative features of our multiple-jet immediate applications to battery er layer of strong and functional
electro-spinning/-blowing technolo- (e.g. new anodes and cathodes) polymer nanocomposite on the
gies are as follows: and fuel cell (e.g. catalyst support nanofibrous scaffold. Preliminary
1) extremely high surface to membranes) development. (NIH) experiments on the hierarchical
volume ratio; structure of the design and assem-
2) variation in porosity, pore size, bly of this unique nanofibrous
pore size distribution and nanocomposite membrane, with or
nanoscale fiber diameter; without the mid-layeer support,
3) multiple-functionality and sur- have already revealed very promis-
face modification; ing potential (e.g. by using a non-
porous hydrophilic nanocomposite
4) durable mechanical strength coating top-layer, an asymmetric
and electrospun nanofibrous mid-layer
5) construction of unique hierar- and a conventional non-woven
chical structures, including microfibrous support, the flux rate
pattern formation with compos- of several such not yet optimized
ites materials. systems, is already 5-10 times
more than that of the best among
conventional UF media with com-
parable rejection ratio and low
fouling criteria. (ONR)

22
Novel Sensors for Instrumentation Development
Harsh-Environment on Multi-Scaled Scattering
Energy Generation for Bio-Molecular Solutions
Jon Longtin Ben Chu

Direct-Write Thermal Sensors fabri- The project is aimed at incorporat- information, when simultaneously
cated using thermal spray technol- ing the newly developed cross-cor- combined with X-ray scattering and
ogy have several unique advan- relation light scattering capability diffraction results, is not attainable
tages over traditional sensors that with synchrotron X-ray scattering, by conventional more popular
have to be mechanically attached specifically designed for bio- methods such as NMR or
to engineering components. The macromolecular gels, solutions and microscopy. To make efficient
unique microstructure and suspensions. The combined X-rays usage of this instrumentation, the
nanometer-scale features associat- and laser light scattering tech- developed laser light scattering
ed with thermal spray coatings, niques will be able to detect struc- instrument module (with capability
including pores and cracks, voids, tural variations and dynamics in a for single photon correlation and
the presence of many splat-splat continuous and very broad spatial multiple photon cross correlation
interfaces and micro cracks all range (0.1 2000 nm), even in as well as angular dependence
result in unique thermal, mechani- turbid media. It is noted that many measurements) will be designed to
cal, and electrical properties that bio-macromolecular fluids, when function independently, in the
result in excellent performance at undergoing structure changes or absence of synchrotron X-rays. The
very high temperatures (1000+ oC) reactions, become opaque and X-ray-collimator has been designed
and in harsh environments. These multiple scattering sets in. The and constructed. It is being tested
sensors can be fabricated directly cross-correlation technique can at the Advanced Polymers
onto engineering components for extract single scattering informa- Beamline at the National
outstanding reliability. A key appli- tion in relatively turbid media, Synchrotron Light Source,
cation for these sensors is their use while dynamic cross-correlation Brookhaven National Laboratory.
in land-based turbines and high-
function analysis can yield knowl- (NIH)
temperature, high-pressure boilers
edge on diffusive and rotational
for more efficient power genera-
motions of species, including esti-
tion, condition-based (vs. failure-
mates of size distributions. Such
based) maintenance, and optimal
performance. The work is funded
by federal and industrial sources.
(NSF)

23
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Stony Brook University 2007

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