Discrete molecules, linear and branched polymers, and disordered cross-linked networks are well studied objects of chemical synthesis. However, two-dimensional polymers (2DPs) have been long missing from this continuum of molecular architectures, both in chemical synthesis and in Nature. Recently, new polymerization strategies and characterization methods have enabled the unambiguous realization of covalently linked macromolecular sheets. However, the controlled polymerization of these planar macromolecules and evaluation of their fundamental properties has only just begun. In this dissertation, I will begin by discussing controlled colloidal polymerization strategies, which have enabled the synthesis of single-crystalline 2DPs and high-quality 2DP films. Next, I will explore the unique combination of optical, electronic, magnetic, mechanical, and thermal properties that arise as a consequence of the structure of layered 2DPs. Finally, I end by describing the application potential of 2DPs, which is augmented by several proof-of-principle demonstrations. Taken together, this Dissertation will demonstrate how a robust understanding of 2D polymerization enables the exploration of the fundamental properties and application relevance of macromolecular sheets.

Creator

• Evans, Austin Michael

DOI

• https://doi.org/10.21985/n2-byqk-tk85

Subject

• Polymer chemistry
• Chemistry
• Materials Science

Language

• en

Alternate Identifier

• etdadmin_upload_793170
• http://dissertations.umi.com/northwestern:15454

Keyword

• Covalent Organic Frameworks
• Controlled Polymerization
• Organic Electronics
• Two-dimensional Polymers

Date created

• 2020-01-01

Resource type

• Dissertation

Rights statement

• In Copyright