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Publication Date

2023-1

First Advisor

Maren E. Buck

Document Type

Honors Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Chemistry

Keywords

polymers, functional materials, actuators, sensors, stimuli-responsive, pH-responsive, azlactone, hydrogels, thin films, direct ink painting, post-polymerization modification

Abstract

The specificity and reversibility of stimuli-responsive polymers is especially advantageous for applications in chemical sensing. Inspired by previous work, the work presented in this thesis develops pH-responsive sensors through a straightforward patterning technique of reactive polymer networks known as “direct ink writing” (DIW) and “direct ink painting” (DIP). The application of the amine onto the top surface of the hydrogel with a capillary pen (DIW) and paintbrush (DIP) results in gravitational diffusion down through the network to create a gradient in chemical functionalization. The resulting network exhibits anisotropic swelling behavior in various pH conditions. In combination with lateral patterning, this swelling further influences the shape-change behavior of the material. The technique was further improved upon by adjusting the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the network by experimenting with an alternative polymer backbone.

Rights

©2023 Anna Lynch. Access limited to the Smith College community and other researchers while on campus. Smith College community members also may access from off-campus using a Smith College log-in. Other off-campus researchers may request a copy through Interlibrary Loan for personal use.

Language

English

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