First generation dendrimers having a high level of size/shape/symmetry homogeneity were fabricated using a
synthetic scheme that employs highly quantitative copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reactions
in combination with a molecular architecture that favors homogeneity. An "outside-in" or convergent synthetic
approach was employed wherein dendrons having Sierpinski triangular fractal architectures were coupled to core
structures having D2h or D3h point group symmetries to form the desired dendrimers. The individual dendrons
consisted of branched-backbone conductive polymers having benzene branch points and 1,2,3-triazole linkages with
uninterrupted π-electron cloud overlap throughout. Each dendron was then coupled to a benzene core structure
having acetylene substituents by means of a CuAAC reaction so as to extend the uninterrupted π-conjugation from
the dendron to the core structure for imparting conductivity throughout the entire dendrimer. The resulting
dendrimers maintained the point group symmetry of their core structure, with the core structure serving to
electronically couple the dendrons to one another by extension of their uninterrupted π-electron systems. Synthesis
of these first generation dendrimers provides a proof of principle for the synthesis of higher generation conductive
dendrimers. Since the nanophotonic properties of conductive dendrimers may be dependent, at least in some
instances, upon their size, shape, and symmetry, enhancements with respect to their homogeneity may unmask new
nanophotonic properties.
An apparatus is described for housing artificial photosynthesis processes. The apparatus is solar powered and employs
two separate compartments for the respective oxidation and reduction reactions. A proton exchange membrane (PEM)
partitions the two compartments and enables proton conduction therebetween. Faradic losses due to proton currents are
minimized by use of a novel geometry. A zigzag design for the solar cell/electrode/PEM partition between the two
compartments introduces large fringe fields which help drive proton current from one compartment to the other and
reduce faradic losses by shortening the average proton conduction path. Facilitating proton current also improves the pH
gradient and enhances water splitting reaction rates. The zigzag design also improves capture of solar flux by shading
the PEM under the solar cells.
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