| A brief history of dendrimers is presented, followed by a background introduction into relevant research dealing with previous synthesis and electron transfer of dendritically encapsulated redox cores. Synthesis of a dendron featuring amphiphilic sulfonic acid tips, a flexible architecture, and a terpyridyl ligand is reported, along with complications discovered during the synthesis. Analysis of these dendrimers includes discussion of electron transfer using both electrochemical methods and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, along with further characterization using mass spectrometry and dynamic light scattering.;A separate investigation into the aqueous amminolysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is also discussed. A method for modifying the surface of PET, using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane in water, to create a chemical linker is presented, whereby further modification of the surface properties are explored. Surfaces were characterized using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and time of flight secondary ionization mass spectrometry. The underlying chemistry regarding the aqueous amminolysis of esters was also investigated using a small molecule PET analogue, as well as, a brief foray into dye synthesis in attempt at characterizing the extent of reaction on the surface. |
