Endgroup interactions in poly(amido amine) and modified poly(propylene imine) dendrimers

We have investigated the endgroup interactions for poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) and modified poly(propylene imine) (PPI) dendrimers. We showed the change in morphology of colloidal Au prepared in the presence of two generations of PAMAM dendrimers. We also prepared and characterized ferrocene-terminated dendrimer/Au colloid nanocomposites. We also developed a new adhesive interlayer for the ubiquitous Au/SiO_x interface based on generation 8 PAMAM dendrimers. These interlayers provide robust adhesion and provide materials suitable for the formation of self-assembled monolayers and can serve as electrode materials.; We also prepared and characterized pyrene-terminated PPI dendrimers and have investigated the generation dependent fluorescent properties of these polymers. A higher excimer-monomer ratio was observed for higher generation dendrimers. Also, evidence for pre-association of pyrene moieties was observed. Imidazole-terminated PPI dendrimers were also prepared and characterized. Unsuccessful attempts to investigate cooperative catalysis were also performed.