The Governors of the University of Alberta

Published purpose

The research conducted in this project involves synthesizing cellulose nanocrystals conjugated to organic dye molecules. Spectroscopy and imaging will be used to study the physical and chemical properties of the resulting hybrids, and explore the use of dye-conjugated cellulose nanocrystals in photocatalysts and sensors. The work will involve establishing detailed protocols and recipes for the conjugation process. The work will involve the collection and analysis of data on conjugated cellulose nanocrystals from a variety of scientific instruments. The work will involve observing changes in the properties of conjugated cellulose nanocrystals upon exposure to common industrial gases found in automobile exhausts and thermal power plant emissions. The work will also involve examining the effect of illuminated cellulose nanocrystals on the rates of certain chemical reactions.