30 May 2012

PhD Completion Seminar - Biological synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanomaterials

Wednesday 6 June 2012 – Presented by Rajesh Ramanathan

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Abstract

Mother Nature is replete with mechanisms that enable self-assembly at the nanoscale to produce a myriad of inorganic materials with precise dimensions, controlled morphology and high complexity from the assemblage of many smaller and simpler components, which has triggered multidisciplinary research at the threshold where biology meets chemistry and physics. The formulation of these nanostructures is complex, yet is achieved using simple biochemical pathways. Elucidating the complexity of Nature’s artwork has been a source of inspiration for materials scientists.

The attempt at designing strategies to create inorganic nanomaterials has led to the development of biological ‘Green’ synthesis routes over the past decade or so. This approach typically encompasses biosynthesis (use of bacteria) and biomimetic (use of amino acids/proteins) routes and has revolutionised nanoparticle synthesis. The challenge now lies in understanding the underlying principles/mechanisms employed by nature (bacteria, diatoms) in the synthesis and assembly of these technologically important nanomaterials. This research outlines some of the fundamental principles employed by nature in the synthesis of nanomaterials and elucidates the complex supramolecular chemistry in the formation of intricate and ornate morphologies.

These findings will open up new avenues and help in large-scale fabrication of important nanomaterials in an efficient green technological route.

Supervisors

• Dr Vipul Bansal
• Professor Suresh Bhargava
• Professor Peter Smooker

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Seminar coordinator: Leeanne Bickford Tel. +61 3 9925 7106