We study the chemistry and physics of nanomaterials for applications in bioengineering. The breadth of our work draws students from both the Fowler School of Engineering and the Schmid College of Science and Technology. To put it simply, we make materials (typically hydrogels) that are simultaneously very simple (chemically) and extraordinarily complex (physically and biologically).
Our studies might immerse one student in a polymer synthesis focused project while another might focus on measurements designed to understand the soft matter physics of those materials. Other students might then focus on the design and use of those materials in bioengineering applications.
In essence, our work examines soft nanomaterials as:
Structural Materials
Ultralow Crosslinked Microgels as bioinks for bioprinting.
Dynamic Materials
Microscopy of a microgel “paste” undergoing triggered dissolution.
Active Materials
Microgel-based platelet-like particles triggering fibrin clotting in a microfluidic device. Data reproduced from Nature Materialsv 13, pp 1108–1114 (2014).
In addition to our research efforts, we aim to support the Chapman community in their nanoanalysis needs. We also collaborate heavily with the Keck Center High-Resolution Imaging Facility in our research. Do any of our tools look useful? Just reach out for a conversation on how we can work together.
The Asylum Origin MFP3D Atomic Force Microscope – Multimode Probe Microscopy. A microscope for routine or custom analysis of thin films, supported nanoparticles, and composite materials.The Asylum Jupiter Atomic Force Microscope – Multimode Probe Microscopy. Basically the same thing as the Origin MFP3D, but with capabilities for sample analysis automation, large (wafer-sized) samples, and high-resolution in-liquid imaging.
The Wyatt Mobius – Dynamic Light Scattering and Phase Analysis Light Scattering. Provides cuvette-based analysis of particle size and zeta potential. Also can be operated in flow mode.
The Izon Exoid – Tunable Resistive Pulse Sensing (TRPS). This tool provides particle-by-particle sizing, counting, and zeta potential measurements. A unique tool for nanoparticle analysis that goes beyond standard scattering or imaging techniques. Shown here coupled to the Elveflow OB1 microfluidics pressure source for an expanded pressure range.
Yep, this is just a small microfluidics pump. But once you integrate it into custom fluidics chips and throw it on an optical microscope, you have a powerful set of microanalysis or microfabrication tools. As shown above, we also use it for TRPS to expand beyond the Izon’s standard pressure range. Stay tuned for pix of our full microfluidics setup.
The Cellink BioX. A multi-head bioprinter for extrusion-based printing of soft materials, cell-laden gels, etc. Also equipped with two different UV sources for photocrosslinking.
Browse the Publications page to see some of our recent work, and feel free to drop us a line if you are interested in learning more!
The Chapman Nanoanalysis Lab (ChaNL) 