Research

Metal Organic Frameworks

The Champness group uses molecular design to construct extended metal organic frameworks and coordination polymers in the solid-state. The nature of the assembly is controlled by the use of a range of specific and directed chemical interactions, including metal-ligand bonds, hydrogen-bonds, and pi-pi interactions. Targets include frameworks that support reactive metal complexes; studying reactions within framework environments; high porosity frameworks for molecular storage and sensing; framework structures for photocrystallography studies.

Surface Self-Assembly

We are developing protocols to control supramolecular organisation on surfaces. This research is carried out in collaboration with a number of different Scanning Probe Microscopy groups around the UK. Our studies focus on the use of hydrogen-bonding interactions between suitably designed molecular building-blocks and has resulted in the control of one- and two-dimensional surface network structures. Our studies have shown that two-dimensional surface-based supramolecular networks may be constructed using a dual-component approach, leading to a high degree of design to be included into such surface supramolecular arrays.

Mechanically Interlocked Molecules

Mechanically interlocked molecules, such as rotaxanes and catenanes, can be used to organise molecules with respect to one another so that such closely organised molecules can be studied in the solution phase. Our studies focus on the use of pillararenes to create interlocked structures which are then probed by spectroscopic techniques, NMR, EPR and (spectro)electrochemistry.

Organic Materials and Dye Molecules

We have an extensive programme of research developing the synthesis of organic materials and their subsequent self-assembly, predominantly on surfaces or in the solid-state. A large part of our focus is on the synthesis of rylene diimide molecules and the study of their electrochemical, spectroelectrochemical and photochemical properties.