Meta-chemistry for nanoscale chemical functionalization

Nanoscale thermal gradients can then be exploited to drive
chemistry in a spatially selective manner. In the projectl we will develop a
fundamental understanding of how heat is generated and transported in a liquid
surrounding a nanostructure, thus providing the foundation for optimal spatial
control. Also crucially, we will synthesise thermally responsive polymers which
will be transformed in the locally heated solvent, creating nano-domains which
can be subsequently chemically functionalised. Using the meta-chemistry
concept cm2 of a nanostructured substrate can be both spatially and selectively
chemically modified, in preparation for subsequent chemical functionalisation, in
less than 60 seconds. The project is at the cusp of chemistry physics and
engineering, it will discover novel fundamental science which in the longer term
could be the foundation of a powerful flexible technology for the nanoscience