Graham Dykes
Supramolecular Dendritic Property Modification

Project Overview

My project involved investigating the assembly of dendritic branches around an active template species. The supramolecular assembly of dendrons around an active template provides a unique way to modify the behaviour of the template molecule itself. Furthermore, this is a reversible process, as host-guest chemistry is inherently controllable. In this way, we developed a controlled release system, in which active ingredients could be temporarily encapsulated inside a dendritic superstructure. In addition, we illustrated the principle that supramolecular encapsulation of a template could enable its transport through membrane model systems, as well as modifying its physical behaviour. This research has potential applications in formulation science for the agrochemical and pharmaceutical industries. This work was reported in numerous research publications – including a particularly significant paper published in Angewandte Chemie.

First Destination – Post-doctoral Research (Sensor Technology) in Hull