A molecular approach to extended solids

We approach solid-state materials using the tools of synthetic molecular chemistry and design hybrid materials featuring properties of both molecules and extended solids. We target materials for applications in clean energy such as sorbents for environmental pollutants, electrodes for secondary batteries, phosphors for solid-state lighting, and absorbers for photovoltaics. We also design discrete molecular centers for the catalytic activation of small molecules relevant to clean energy cycles. Exploration is at the forefront of our research efforts and we work with researchers in disciplines such as applied physics, geology, and materials science to drive the discovery of new materials.

We synthesize organic, inorganic, and hybrid materials using solution- and solid-state techniques, including glovebox and Schlenk-line methods. We determine the structures of our materials using powder- and single-crystal x-ray diffraction. We also use a host of spectroscopic and electrochemical probes, imaging methods, and film deposition techniques. We further characterize our materials under extreme environments and in operating devices to tune new materials for diverse applications in renewable energy.