The materials properties of bulk metal-ligand coordinate polymer gels have been actively studied in the field, with increased understanding and control of their self-healing, mechanical, and optical properties. It is less clear, however, how metal-ligand coordinate polymer networks would behave at a soft interface or in thin-film form. We present a thin-film synthesis method for metal-ligand coordinate polymer systems inspired by the adhesive chemistry and structural characteristics of mussel byssal threads. The materials properties of our model system are compared to those of the bulk gels. By studying these systems, we can design unique soft interfacial materials for biomedical applications such as sealants, coatings, and biosensors.

Determining properties of bio-inspired metal-coordinate thin films at soft interfaces

250th National Meeting (2015)

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