Robust Smart Organic Nanoparticles Capable of Encapsulation and Stimuli-Responsive Release of Guest Molecules

This technology provides a new class of structurally robust smart organic nanoparticles that are formed from covalently linked organic molecules. These organic nanoparticles can be produced in one step from two readily synthesized organic starting materials in the presence of a surfactant. Unlike inorganic nanomaterials such as quantum dots and gold nanoparticles, the smart nanoparticles provided by this technology not only can be produced with excellent control over their size and conveniently functionalized surfaces, but also can act as hosts for hydrophobic guest molecules and can subsequently self-disassemble and release the guests in response to specific environmental stimuli.

• Simple and robust nanoparticle production
• Customizable nanoparticle size and surface functionalization
• High structural integrity due to covalent bonding
• Stable encapsulation of hydrophobic guest molecules
• Stimuli-responsive self-disassembly and guest release

• Interfacial modifiers and compatibilizers
• Biosensors

Dr. Thayumanavan is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry. He is a highly accomplished expert in organic and polymer chemistry and a prolific inventor. His research focuses on the design, synthesis and characterization of organic macromolecules of interest in supramolecular chemistry, materials science and biological applications. Dr. Thayumanavan has broad and well-established expertise in developing custom-designed molecules for specific end-use applications such as pharmaceutical delivery, smart sensors, and fuel cells.