This $640,000 Project Grant awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemistry under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program supports research by Professors Wooley and Darensbourg of Texas A&M University to develop sustainable synthetic methodologies that utilize natural products and consume carbon dioxide to produce the next generation of high-value macromolecular materials. The key products and services to be delivered under this 3-year award include:
Advancing knowledge of chemical methods to convert carbohydrates and nucleic acids into functional polymer monomers that can undergo ring-opening polymerization to create sustainable and degradable materials.
Rigorously characterizing the properties and chemical transformation capabilities of the resulting polymer materials, including exploring stereochemical and regiochemical effects.
Educating and training the next generation STEM workforce in polymer chemistry.
Translating the fundamental research into novel materials with potential to displace current fossil-fuel-based plastics and address environmental issues from plastic pollution.
This award reflects NSF's mission to advance scientific knowledge and develop innovative solutions to societal challenges. Texas A&M University will serve as the prime recipient for this grant, which does not involve any sub-awards.