Catalysis is one of the most sophisticated areas of materials research that encompasses a diverse set of materials and phenomena occurring on multiple length and time scales. Designing catalysts that can be broadly applied toward global energy and environmental challenges requires the development of universal frameworks for complex catalytic systems through rational and independent (or quasi-independent) optimization of multiple structural and compositional features. Toward addressing this goal, a modular platform is presented in which sacrificial organic colloids bearing catalytic nanoparticles on their surfaces self-assemble with matrix precursors, simultaneously structuring the resulting porous networks and fine-tuning the locations of catalyst particles. This strategy allows combinatorial variations of the material building blocks and their organization, in turn providing numerous degrees of freedom for optimizing the material’s functional properties, from the nanoscale to the macroscale. The platform enables systematic studies and rational design of efficient and robust systems for a wide range of catalytic and photocatalytic reactions, as well as their integration into industrial and other real-life environments.
2017
Modular Design of Advanced Catalytic Materials Using Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Raspberry Particles. Adv. Func. Mater. 2017 :1704559. Publisher's VersionAbstract
2017 MRS Medal
Havinga Medal
A Biologically Inspired, Functionally Graded End Effector for Soft Robotics Applications. Soft Robotics. 2017;4 (4) :317-323. Publisher's VersionAbstract
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New Architectures for Designed Catalysts: Selective Oxidation using AgAu Nanoparticles on Colloid-Templated Silica. Chem. Eur. J. 2018;24 :1833 –1837 . Publisher's VersionAbstract
. News on SLIPS: Video about Pitcher plant biomimicry
Slippery liquid surfaces confuse mussels to stop them from sticking to underwater structures
Preventing mussel adhesion using lubricant-infused materials. Science. 2017;357 (6352) :668-673. Publisher's VersionAbstract
Positive news about ARPA-E program: A Report of The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine
Joanna is featured in Chemical & Engineering News Magazine
Aizenberg Summer Retreat 2017 at D'Acres New Hampshire
The Optical Janus Effect: Asymmetric Structural Color Reflection Materials. Adv. Mater. 2017;29 (29) :1606876. Publisher's VersionAbstract
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