Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating ligand surfaces of crown ether macrocycle which exhibit selective binding for metal ions. The project will use state-of-the-art research in self-assembled monolayers and molecular assemblies. The selective ligand surfaces developed under this project can be applied to monitor and control essential ionic nutrients in hydroponic growth media as required for the regenerative pro- duction of food. The primary goal in Phase I will be to synthesize the functional ligand surfaces of chromogenic macrocycles and to verify metal complexation. This process will demonstrate that several crown ethers can be successfully chemisorbed on a substrate, that functionality is maintained, and that there are notable differences in the uptake for individual metal ions of interest to NASA.
Potential Commercial Applications:Self-assembling and selective ligand surfaces hold tremendous potential for custom engineering of microsensors, electronics, micro-scale pumping and switching, and in biotechnology. The specific macrocycle ligand surfaces developed in this program can be used for detection of toxic heavy metals in both natural and process control waters and in commercial hydroponic and aquaculture ventures.
