Date Thesis Awarded

4-2018

Access Type

Honors Thesis -- Access Restricted On-Campus Only

Degree Name

Bachelors of Science (BS)

Department

Chemistry

Advisor

Elizabeth J. Harbron

Committee Members

Christopher J. Abelt

Nathanael M. Kidwell

Alexander B. Angelov

Abstract

We created a system consisting of a highly fluorescent conjugated polymer nanoparticle paired with a photo-release dye. Upon irradiation at the maximum absorbance of the nanoparticle, it non-radiatively transfers its energy to the dye through the process of FRET (Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer), exciting the dye, which then releases a biologically relevant ion, zinc. This system enhances the photo-release process, making it kinetically faster and more efficient. The photo-event is accompanied by a change in fluorescence of the dye, allowing for simultaneous detection of photo-release. This thesis outlines nanoparticle synthesis using the reprecipitation method, synthesis of the zinc releasing dye, and nanoparticle doping procedure.

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