Research Description
Our group focuses on the preparation and characterization of thin films to explore the physical chemical aspects of polymer and biopolymer dynamics at surfaces and interfaces. Our current research interests include, quantifying binding interactions, lignification, biomimetic design of interfaces in composite materials, polymer degradation, and enzymatic transformations of biomass. We are members of GlycoMIP: An NSF Materials Innovation Platform and widely collaborate with research groups across campus, especially other members of the Macromolecules Innovation Institute (MII). Our principal characterization methods include tensiometry, contact angle goniometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) studies.