The growth of Pd nanoparticles leads to stable facets at or above 2 nm size.

1. Peptide Recognition on Metal Nanoparticle Surfaces Hendrik Heinz, University of Akron, DMR 0955071 We aim to unlock nature’s process of biomineralization using advanced modeling and simulation techniques. The understanding of inorganic-organic bonding can help create nanometer-scale metallic wires and sensors, and also control the assembly of highly efficient catalysts. We have identified the mechanism of adsorption of small biological building blocks which helps remove empiricism in the synthesis of metal nanostructures of controlled shape and size. We also explained the function of new peptide-derived palladium catalysts in Stille coupling reactions with thousand-fold higher turnover frequency than current catalysts. The relative strength of adsorption of single amino acids and surfactants on gold {111} surfaces was identified using supercomputing. The growth of Pd nanoparticles leads to stable facets at or above 2 nm size.

2. Peptide Recognition on Metal Nanoparticle Surfaces Hendrik Heinz, University of Akron, DMR 0955071 We organized an Engineering Career Day for 70 High School students, teachers, and parents which included demonstrations and a panel discussion to introduce careers and programs of study. Our research was featured in more than 30 press releases including USA Today (online) and the Columbus Dispatch (print). We co-organized a symposium at NSTI Nanotech 2011, entitled “Nano & Micro: Computational Methods, Simulation & Software Tools” with 15 technical sessions and more than 90 presenters from the US and overseas. Engineering Career Day, January 29, 2011