Chemistry Seminar: Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Library and Surface Modification of PBI

Double Feature of MS Student Thesis Proposals!

Register Here for Zoom Link

Presentation #1:
Development of an Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectral Library of Artists’ Pigments

Olivia Kuzio
Chemistry MS Candidate
School of Chemistry and Materials Science, RIT

Abstract:
Scientific studies of artworks provide a better understanding of their physical nature, which extends to a better understanding of their creation, provenance, and cultural significance. There are many analytical techniques used to study artworks, the most common of which are noninvasive spectroscopies, because it is key to avoid sampling these precious objects if at all possible. It is recognized that electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is an effective technique for characterizing artists’ pigments. However, analysis by conventional high frequency (HF) EPR spectrometers requires the removal of a sample from the artwork, rendering it undesirably invasive. Understanding this, a noninvasive low frequency (LF) EPR spectrometer has recently been developed by the Magnetic Resonance Laboratory at RIT, which is a more attractive option for studying artworks. Currently, there is no published database of the spectra of pigments that display EPR signals. A practical next step that will be crucial for taking LFEPR from viable option to routine method for art analysis will involve defining an encyclopedic set of pigments which can be identified using the technique. The creation of an EPR spectral library of artists’ pigments will not only define the gamut of the technique’s capabilities for art analysis, but will also provide a collection of standard data useful for spectral comparison and identification of unknown pigments.

Speaker Bio:
Olivia is concurrently pursuing an MS in Chemistry and a PhD in Color Science. Her color science dissertation research involves the development of accessible and affordable multispectral imaging solutions for cultural heritage studio photographers. She holds a BS in Chemistry from the Pennsylvania State University, and has completed graduate co-ops at the Smithsonian Conservation Institute, where she developed and evaluated workflows for 2.5 and 3D imaging of small ancient near-eastern artifacts, and the Getty Conservation Institute, where she completed comprehensive technical examinations of paintings and works on paper from the collections of the J. Paul Getty Museum and the Getty Research Institute.

Presentation #2:
Surface Modification of Polybenzimidazole (PBI) Using UV Photo-oxidation

Kristen Atkinson
Chemistry MS Candidate
School of Chemistry and Materials Science, RIT

Abstract:
Polybenzimidazole (PBI) is a high-performance polymer that has found use in the aerospace industry, high temperature fuel cells, and redox flow batteries. PBI functions as a membrane in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and redox flow batteries, but the polymer lacks conductivity to allow the exchange of protons. Doping with phosphoric acid enhances conductivity and the exchange of protons to occur. After repeated use, the acid comes off the surface of PBI and it loses effectiveness as a membrane. I am studying the modification of the surface of PBI using 253.7 nm UV photo-oxidation for various periods of time to determine if this wavelength of photo-oxidation will be better suited for phosphoric acid adhesion. Experiments will be conducted to analyze changes in hydrophilicity, surface roughness, adhesion of phosphoric acid, and surface chemistry using water contact angle, atomic force microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, respectively.

Speaker Bio:
Kristen Atkinson is from Grand Island, New York.  She came to RIT in 2017 and began working with Dr. Takacs on surface modification of PBI shortly thereafter. Just this year, she was co-author of related research on a paper presented at the Fall 2020 National Meeting of the American Chemical Society which was recently peer-reviewed and accepted for publication in the journal Technologies. She is a BS/MS student at RIT and is set to receive her Bachelor’s in Chemistry in December 2020 and her Master’s in Chemistry in December 2021.
 

Intended Audience:
Undergraduates, graduates, and experts. Those with interest in the topic.