Presenter(s): Patrick Fajardo
Faculty Mentor(s): Ramesh Jasti
Poster 17
Session: Sciences
Of the many types of ion-sensitive devices, one who’s potential has not been fully realized are chemically modified field effect transistors (CHEMFETs). These devices utilize ion receptors to detect specific target ions, commonly used to detect the presence of pollutants. One possible receptor is cycloparaphenylene (CPP), also called carbon nanohoops. In this research we determined the interaction between CPP and a variety of ions using CHEMFET devices, by measuring a change in output voltage at different ion concentrations. We expected CPPs to interact strongly with cations, as these molecules have an electron rich pore which has been applied as a chemical host in other systems. A preliminary screening showed an interaction between CPP and lithium, ammonium, and sodium cations. In addition control experiments established a baseline, in order to accurately quantify the interaction taking place. Further ion screenings, as well as ionic strength control studies, are future experiments that will be carried out to further characterize the interaction taking place.