The principles of sustainable nanotechnology have been embedded into chemistry education and outreach activities designed for students at all levels. The hands-on activities were centered around nanomaterials exhibiting magnetic properties, variable surface properties (hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity), responsiveness to changes in the environment and optical properties that vary with size. Tailoring the properties of nanomaterials through chemical modifications was demonstrated using hydrophobic sand, ferrofluid samples, alginate spheres, and memory metal (nitinol). Activities were developed around each of these nanomaterials to illustrate how the properties can be tuned to optimize sustainability and potential biomedical or environmental applications. The outreach venues consisted of career education events, informal education and community events, and were cultivated through strategic partnerships with local educational organizations, science museums and volunteer organizations. The sustainable nanotechnology content was also included in the introductory college chemistry curriculum and in a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program focused on nanoscience and nanotechnology.

Embedding sustainable nanotechnology into chemistry education and outreach

2019 Spring National Meeting

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