"Synthesis and Characterization of Silicon Nanoparticles." In this project, I am investigating a novel solution synthesis route to making silicon nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are synthesized by oxidation of Zintl metal silicides with bromine or iodine in organic solvents and then terminated with alkyl groups. The oxidation route provides a means of targeting specific sized nanoparticles by limiting the surface sites for bromine or iodine and subsequent terminating group. The reaction will be investigated varying several parameters with the final result being the formation of crystalline silicon nanoparticles that luminesce. The particles will be characterized by TEM (transmission electron microscopy), HRTEM (high-resolution TEM), FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and fluorescence microscopy.

Dr. Subhash Risbud group meetings, 9/01-6/02, Interactions with other graduate students and faculty not in the chemistry department has given me the unique opportunity to perceive at my research from a different point of view, non-chemical, and convey my research to others not within my research area. Explaining chemistry to chemists is not difficult; however, explaining chemistry to non-chemists can be. Interactions with Dr. Risbud's group gave me the opportunity to explain my research in non-chemical terms. It also proved beneficial because Dr. Risbud and his group members had many ideas for methods for analyzing my nanoparticles and size separation, which provided me with more determination to accomplish my research goals. Techniques discussed included EELS, EDXS, PEELS, and EXAFS for characterization, and SOL-GELS for size separation.

The IGERT program has played a key role in my education and professional development over the past two years. The IGERT fellowship has provided support for my dissertation research as well as the financial support to attend multiple conferences and national meetings. By presenting my research at multiple conferences and national meetings, I have been able to development my people skills and networking abilities. I am able to convey my research to more people in different areas of study, not just chemistry. Through my interactions with other scientist I have learned that my research project demands a multidisciplinary approach in order to understand all of the possible applications and characterizations of silicon nanoparticles. I do not believe that I would be able to advance my research as much as I have if it were not for the IGERT award. Therefore, it is very encouraging to know that the National Science Foundation promotes multidisciplinary research and interactions.