Preparation of electronic materials from cellulose through functionalization with ionic liquid groups
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Chemistry/Polymer and materials science track
Minor
Physics
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Kevin Miller, PhD
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
There is growing urgency to develop sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based materials as concerns about environmental impact and resource depletion intensify. Among renewable biopolymers, cellulose stands out as one of the most abundant and versatile organic compounds on Earth. As the structural backbone of plant cell walls, it provides rigidity and mechanical strength, while its abundance, biodegradability, and tunable chemistry make it an attractive candidate for sustainable materials. Beyond its traditional uses in textiles, paper, and food additives, cellulose has been increasingly investigated in polymer chemistry for advanced applications. The present study aims to optimize synthetic routes to dual ionic liquid- functionalized cellulose. Two alternative pathways were evaluated: one beginning with 6- chlorohexanol and the other with caprolactone. Both strategies rely on click chemistry for triazole installation and subsequent triazolium functionalization, but differ in cost, number of steps, and scalability. The goal is to determine which route provides the most efficient balance of yield, labor, and material expense. Optimizing the synthetic process will not only advance the design of cellulosic poly(ionic liquids) but also support the broader pursuit of sustainable, high-performance materials.
Fall Scholars Week 2025
Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Preparation of electronic materials from cellulose through functionalization with ionic liquid groups
There is growing urgency to develop sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based materials as concerns about environmental impact and resource depletion intensify. Among renewable biopolymers, cellulose stands out as one of the most abundant and versatile organic compounds on Earth. As the structural backbone of plant cell walls, it provides rigidity and mechanical strength, while its abundance, biodegradability, and tunable chemistry make it an attractive candidate for sustainable materials. Beyond its traditional uses in textiles, paper, and food additives, cellulose has been increasingly investigated in polymer chemistry for advanced applications. The present study aims to optimize synthetic routes to dual ionic liquid- functionalized cellulose. Two alternative pathways were evaluated: one beginning with 6- chlorohexanol and the other with caprolactone. Both strategies rely on click chemistry for triazole installation and subsequent triazolium functionalization, but differ in cost, number of steps, and scalability. The goal is to determine which route provides the most efficient balance of yield, labor, and material expense. Optimizing the synthetic process will not only advance the design of cellulosic poly(ionic liquids) but also support the broader pursuit of sustainable, high-performance materials.