REU/RET Projects

Eugene T. Pashuck
University: University of Florida
Mentor in UCF: Dr. K. Belfield - Chemistry

Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization of Di-block Polymer for Magnetic Self-Assembled Nanocomposites

We synthesized a novel di-block copolymer of 5-(propionitroester) bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene and bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene by using ring opening metathesis polymerization with controlled block lengths. FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopies were used to characterize the structure of the monomer and block copolymer. Through TGA and DSC, the thermal properties of the block copolymer were elucidated. Using the di-block polymer as a stabilizer, nanostructured Fe2O3 magnetic fluids were prepared in 1,4-dioxane via thermal decomposition of Fe(CO)5 followed by oxidation of the iron nanoparticles.