Michael C. Biewer , Ph.D.
Organic molecular switches
Research Group
Education
B.S., The Ohio State University (1990): Chemistry
Ph.D., Yale University (1995): Organic Chemistry
Advisor: J. Michael McBride
Postdoctoral Associate, University of Colorado (1995–97)
Advisor: David M. Walba
Research Description
My research is focused on the understanding of intermolecular effects in ordered media. In particular we are investigating the effect different media impart upon chemical reactivity with the goal of designing organic systems with specific functional control. The first research area is designing monolayers with specific intermolecular interactions within the monolayer structure. We are studying monolayers grown on transparent glass surfaces because we are initially probing the intermolecular interactions on the surface through optical studies of a photochromic spiropyran that is attached. A second research area is the design of molecular level sensors and switches. We couple the switching behavior of organic photochromic materials with a catalytic system in order to turn the catalytic property on and off with light. For the third research area, in collaboration with the NanoTech Institute at UTD, we are attempting to prepare single walled carbon nanotubes through an organic synthesis approach.
Selected Publications
Yang, M.-H.; Biewer, M.C. "Monitoring Surface Reactions Optically in a Self-Assembled Monolayer with a Photochromic Core", Tetrahedron Letters (2005) 46: 349-351.
Baughman, R.H.; Biewer, M.C.; Ferraris, J.P.; Lamba, J.S. “Topochemical Strategies for the Rational Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes of One Specified Type”, Synthetic Metals (2004) 141: 87-92.
Patel, K.; Castillo-Muzquiz, A.; Biewer, M.C. “Studying Monolayer/Solvent Interactions with a Photochromic Compound in a Self-Assembled Monolayer”, Tetrahedron Letters (2002) 43: 5933-5935.
- Updated: November 28, 2006
