Collaborative Research: Sequence-Driven Assembly in Polyelectrolyte/Surfactant Complex Coacervates

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $500,413 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Non-technical Abstract Molecules can arrange to form larger structures, a process that is key to both complex living tissues and new, advanced materials. For example, scientists have long studied how specific sequences of amino acids fold to create proteins that act as tiny machines. Similarly, surfactants (e.g., the molecules in soap) can assemble into spheres, layers, and tubes. In both cases, the assembled structure is important for their practical use. For example, long, tube-shaped surfactant structures help to thicken shampoos while also cleaning hair. However, the ability to form this tube-like structure is usually related to shape of the surfactant molecule itself. This project seeks to learn from the ways in which long, charged molecules with protein-like sequences attract oppositely-charged surfactants, and form materials with desired structures. This effort uses both experiments and computation and will benefit society and the U.S. by establishing a versatile class of biology-inspired materials for use across chemical, agricultural, and industrial applications. The research will also involve the interdisciplinary training of researchers with broad expertise in chemistry, engineering, and physics, via both student mentorship and engagement with K-12 students. Technical Abstract This project will establish how sequence-controlled polymers can be used for the rational design of surfactant-containing materials. This effort will leverage sequence-defined polype

Key facts

NSF award ID
2452572
Awardee
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (IL)
SAM.gov UEI
Y8CWNJRCNN91
PI
Charles E Sing
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
BIO-RELATED MATERIALS RESEARCH
Estimated total
$500,413
Funds obligated
$263,403
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029