01904 324185
E-mail: victor.chechik@york.ac.uk
The Chechik group uses mechanistic understanding to solve a range of topical problems including interactions and reactions in supramolecular systems and in nanomaterials. We often use stable free radicals and EPR spectroscopy as probes for these systems (we have three CW-EPR spectrometers operating at X- and Q-bands). We are also interested in free radical chemistry in general including detection and characterization of short-lived radical intermediates and mechanisms of radical reactions. We often collaborate with other researchers in academic and in industry. Current projects include the following areas:
We aim to design molecules that can rapidly move on the surfaces. We target the speed of movement that will give macroscopic displacement (millimeters) in a reasonable time (hours). Our molecular walkers are based on reversible and associative chemical reactions on the surface of a reactive organic monolayer deposited on a suitable solid support.
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We have long been interested in probing mobility, reactivity and non-covalent interactions of organic molecules deposited on the surface of inorganic nanoparticles. We often use TEMPO derivatives and EPR spectroscopy to monitor and understand these systems. For instance, one current project explores reactions between neighbouring molecules on the nanoparticle surface. Functional nanomaterials have many important applications and understanding how they can be manipulated through chemical reactions is essential for their future development.
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Magnetic nanoparticles (eg with an iron oxide core) bring together many properties of supramolecular systems. They can be easily functionalised with organic ligands that determine their solubility and other properties, several functional ligands can be attached to the same nanoparticle, they can be guided by static magnetic field and heated by oscillating magnetic field. We are interested in using these materials for medicinal applications. In particular, we work on developing functional organic coatings for nanoparticles that would provide active targeting and delivery of therapeutic agents.
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Short-lived free radical intermediates play a key role in many important processes, including combustion, polymerisation, atmospheric reactions, catalysis and biological process. However, they are difficult to study as they are usually present at extremely low concentrations. We are interested in developing methodologies for detecting short-lived radicals. We have recently developed a new type of radical traps for detection with mass spectrometry. We are using these traps (as well as more conventional spin trapping approach and EPR spectroscopy to understand the mechanisms of radical reactions. One current project aims to quantitatively measure radical concentrations – a really challenging task! We are also interested in understanding radical reaction mechanisms in complex biologically-relevant systems.
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