Surface Functionalization of 1D Lepidocrocite-like Titania, and Characterization of 2D Birnessite Nanomaterials

Ramthun, Rebecca

Student Work

Surface Functionalization of 1D Lepidocrocite-like Titania, and Characterization of 2D Birnessite Nanomaterials

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Hydroxide-derived nanomaterials are a class of recently discovered semiconducting materials synthesized from manganese and titanium precursors to form 2D birnessite forms of MnO2 and 1D lepidocrocite-like forms of TiO2. Our objective is to understand the surface electronics of the Mn HDN for electrochemical, sensing, and catalytic purposes in the future, and to functionalize the surface of the 1DL for the purpose of incorporation into polymers. After synthesis, we utilized x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and powder x-ray diffraction (pXRD) to characterize the Mn HDN. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) established a band edge diagram of the Mn HDN. Seeking to incorporate the 1DL into polymers in the future, we attached various silanes to the surface of the 1DL and confirmed attachment via XPS and XRD. Intercalated cation exclusion indicates confirmation of covalent attachment to the 1DL. Peak area ratios reveal that an aminopropyl silane attaches to the 1DL with a ratio of 0.98, and we present a model congruent with these results.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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