Douglas H. Adamson

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Director of the Polymer Program at IMS

Research Information

We are a materials synthesis group. Our expertise is in the synthesis of model polymers: well-defined polymers normally synthesized by high vacuum anionic polymerization and well characterized with respect to molecular weight, composition, microstructure and chain architecture. Of special interest is the self-assembly of block copolymers. These polymers are studied in our group as biomimetic agents, meaning they mimic the structure or function of naturally occurring macromolecules. Examples include their use for the catalysis of reactions, templation of the growth of inorganic materials, or the formation of larger structures such as vesicles. Our research is commonly done in collaboration with scientists outside of chemistry, such as physicists, engineers, and biologists.

In addition, we are actively investigating exfoliation and functionalization techniques for the utilization of graphene sheets in polymer composites. Incorporating these nanofillers into various polymers has been shown to improve properties such as electrical conductivity, strength, toughness, and permeation. Our research involves both making the composites as well as developing both synthetic and analytical techniques for the preparation of these high aspect ratio materials.