“Functional Polyarylene Networks”- broader impacts Dennis Smith, Clemson University, DMR 0514622

1. “Functional Polyarylene Networks”- intellectual meritDennis W. Smith, Clemson University, DMR 0514622 Single layer and multilayered fullerenes have been solubilized by functionalization with our polymers for use in electronic and photonic devices such as solar cells for energy conversion. In collaboration with Japanese workers, we have built simple photo cells (left) and measured very promising current values (right). See: J. Mater. Chem.2008, 18, 3237; Chem. Mater.2007, 19, 1411; Adv. Funct. Mater.2007, 17, 1237. In addition, we have prepared a modular family of sensors based on novel fluorinated polymers which sense fluoride, cyanide (right), and some meta ions. The work was well received by the community and was chosen for the cover of a prestigious journal (left). See: J. Mater. Chem.2008, 18, 1970; Macromol.2007, 40(26), 9517; J. Polym. Sci. Part A. 2007, 45, 5705.

2. “Functional Polyarylene Networks”- broader impactsDennis Smith, Clemson University, DMR 0514622 International Outreach & Professional Service: The PI serves as Chair-Elect of The ACS Division of Polymer Chemistry, IUPAC liaison, and organizer of international symposia, including most recently, the IUPAC Marco2008 “International Young Polymer Scientist Symposium” held in Taipei in June 2008 (invited speakers below with co-organizer and IUPAC Polymer Division President, Chris Ober). K-12 Outreach: Activities have focused in three areas: “Paws for Polymers” K-12 Teacher training workshops, “K-12 Tiger Chemistry Road Show”, and the “Emerging Scholars Program” (below right). The latter involves a three week program at Clemson for low income area high school students in South Carolina. In all these programs, we use polymer technology to convey basic science concepts. Nylon rope synthesis 5th graders and polymers