Development of novel nanostructured organically functionalized hybrid silsesquioxanes: preparation, characterization and its application as a sensor of compounds and ions of environmental and biological interest

Abstract

In this project we describe the development, different hybrids materials based on silsesquioxanes organically modified. The specific objectives of this project can be summarized in three steps. In a first part, the nanocomposite octa-(3-chloropropyl)octa silsesquioxane organofunctionalized with tryazole, imidazole and a PAMAM dendrimer (G.0) groups should be prepared and characterized by different techniques such as: Infrared (FTIR), UV-Visible, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, (NMR solid state), Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM, TEM), and Thermogravimetry (TG). In a second step we intend to conduct a systematic study about the electrochemical properties of these materials after the formation of hybrid and metal hexacyanoferrates complexes, using mainly the cyclic voltammetry as technique and solid and graphite paste electrode as work electrode. In a third step, after optimization of the electrochemical system, we intend to test these materials as sensors for the determination of species of environmental and biological interest, such as pesticides, sulfhydryl compounds and other analytes employing especially square wave, differential pulse voltammetry or chronoamperometry techniques. Thus, one of the main goals is to start and assimilate the recent sensor technology and develop new processes of nanocomposites synthesis which may encourage a future transfer of knowledge to the productive and technological sector. (AU)