Project Title:

Selective Ligand Surfaces for Nutrient Solution Monitoring and Control

92-1-12.05-7070                                                   NAS10-11980
Selective Ligand Surfaces for Nutrient Solution
     Monitoring and Control
Geo-Centers, Inc.
7 Wells Avenue
Newton Centre, MA  02159
Mary Beth Tabacco                                    (617-964-7070)

Abstract:

     Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating
ligand surfaces of crown ether macrocycle which exhibit selective
binding for metal ions. The project will use state-of-the-art
research in self-assembled monolayers and molecular assemblies.
The selective ligand surfaces developed under this project can be
applied to monitor and control essential ionic nutrients in
hydroponic growth media as required for the regenerative pro-
duction of food. The primary goal in Phase I will be to synthesize
the functional ligand surfaces of chromogenic macrocycles and to
verify metal complexation. This process will demonstrate that
several crown ethers can be successfully chemisorbed on a
substrate, that functionality is maintained, and that there are
notable differences in the uptake for individual metal ions of
interest to NASA. 

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  Self-assembling and selective
ligand surfaces hold tremendous potential for custom engineering
of microsensors, electronics, micro-scale pumping and switching,
and in biotechnology. The specific macrocycle ligand surfaces
developed in this program can be used for detection of toxic heavy
metals in both natural and process control waters and in
commercial hydroponic and aquaculture ventures.

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