Brandon Yost Thesis Defense October 28^th from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm in Phillips 258

Metal-organic frameworks are porous materials that can be used as catalysts for the decontamination of chemical warfare agents. The metal-organic framework and its interaction with chemical warfare agents is usually studied with x-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy and isotherm measurements to monitor reactivity and uptake of guest molecules. I have developed and employed Raman spectroscopy as a powerful tool in the study of defective metal-organic frameworks. I have identified a vibrational signature of missing cluster defects in the metal-organic framework UiO-66 through the employment of Raman spectroscopy. I have also utilized Raman spectroscopy to understand the hydrolysis-based decomposition of the chemical warfare agent simulant dimethyl phosphite by the metal-organic framework UiO-66. Coupled with standard measurements, this information will further the understanding of the complex interplay between framework topology, geometry, particle size, and defect density and aid in the determination of a set of design rules for creating highly catalytically-active metal-organic frameworks for chemical warfare agent degradation.

In-Person Location: October 28, 2022. Phillips Hall Room 258, 1:00 PM EST.

Zoom: https://unc.zoom.us/j/5671143866