This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049) provides $656,061 in funding to a collaborative research team at the University of Virginia, California State University Northridge, and University of Virginia to advance nanocrystal synthesis and catalysis research. The key objectives are: Preparing a series of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands and developing colloidal synthesis methods to produce noble metal (Pt, Pd, Au, Ag) nanocrystals with controlled sizes, compositions, and surface structures. Elucidating the NHC-controlled nanocrystal synthesis mechanism through in-situ characterization, computational modeling, and machine learning. Understanding the catalytic properties of the synthesized high-index surface nanocrystals for CO2 reduction and furfural reduction reactions. This 3-year collaborative research effort aims to advance fundamental knowledge of NHC-based control over nanocrystal formation, with potential applications in catalysis, optoelectronics, and biomedicine. The project also integrates research and education activities to train the next generation of researchers.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $0 | 1/23/25 | ||
| Not listed | $656.1k | 6/28/24 |