Community College Participants and Projects: 2011
Undergraduate Researcher: Taron Hakobyan
Intended Major: Biochemistry
Home Institution: Los Angeles Trade-Technical College
Research Project: Investigation of Peptoids and Liposomes for Printed Biosensors
Faculty Advisor: Prof. Ana Claudia Arias
Graduate Student Mentor: Brian Lunt
Hosting Organization: Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences Department, UC Berkeley
Project Abstract: This project investigated different materials in an attempt to produce biosensor switches using thermosensitive liposomes and peptoids. The characteristics of electronic materials to be encapsulated in liposomes are being examined. The researchers studied different methods of release suitable for inkjet printing conditions. Peptoids were examined with the intention of forming monolayer nanosheets that may be spun, rolled, or printed on substrates to create sensor switches. Fluorescence microscope, SEM, and AFM imaging are vital instruments that were used to congregate the new knowledge. – Click Project poster
Undergraduate Researcher: Maja Jennifer Oblepias
Intended Major: Chemical Engineering
Home Institution: Contra Costa College
Research Project: Graphene Synthesis via Mechanical Exfoliation and Characterization with AFM
Faculty Advisor: Prof. Junqiao Wu
Postdoc Mentor: Dr. Cheng-Lun Hsin
Hosting Organization: Materials Science & Engineering Department, UC Berkeley
Project Abstract: Mechanical exfoliation via adhesive device was used to synthesize graphene. The fabrication of graphene samples was limited to the available equipment to be used. An optical microscope was used to find acceptable graphene samples. The samples were then characterized via atomic force microscopy. Graphite sheets were successfully separated to thin layers of graphenes. However, the area of the graphene fabricated was not controlled. The mechanical exfoliation process produced graphene flakes with small-area of various sizes and thickness in a very feasible and economically convenient way.
Project poster