Design, Synthesis and Applications of Phospha(twisted)NanoGraphenes

Introduction

Nano-Graphitic molecules (NGs) are pivotal for existing microelectronics and the development of emerging technologies: wearable electronics, artificial skins and nerves, etc. Their outstanding semiconducting properties rely on the efficient overlap of their carbon scaffold and the spatial disposition of molecules.

Objectives

If we could twist the planar framework of NGs, diversify their pi-scaffold with heteroatoms, while keeping control over the molecular organization, we could modify their properties and access innovative materials with uncharted research opportunities for organic electronics.

Methodology

Through an innovative approach, I target to insert phosphorus heterocycles into (twisted) NGs as tools to tailor their properties and meticulously control their molecular arrangement. With Phospha(t)NGs, I will provide a highly versatile protocol for the preparation of novel, twisted phospha-NGs.

Unique Chemistry

Thanks to the unique chemistry of phosphorus, I aim at establishing an unconventional methodology to sequentially organize NGs into hierarchical architectures. My groundbreaking approach will lead to materials that were inaccessible to date as organophosphorus chemistry was too immature so far.

Investigation Techniques

Through an arsenal of spectroscopic techniques, I will achieve the first comprehensive investigation on the impact of heteroatoms into the twisting-induced properties of NGs.

Applications

The outcomes of Phospha(t)NGs will have a wide range of applications. Here, I will test selected individual and assembled phospha-NGs as chiroptical materials and as prototypes of field-effect transistor sensors, laying the foundation for new research opportunities in material science.

Conclusion

Thus, Phospha(t)NGs will consolidate the bedrocks for new, cutting-edge fields of research, whose development will clearly extend beyond the time-scale of this proposal.