Catalytic Self-Decontaminating Materials
Catalytic Self-Decontaminating Materials
Catalytic Self-Decontaminating Materials
ES
EARCH LA B
AL
R
AT
NAV
ORY
AS
HINGTO
N,
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has developed self-decontaminating structures based on porphyrin-embedded, target imprinted, porous, organosilicate sorbents. The materials rapidly sequester targets as a result of the affinity of the sorbent structures. Catalysis proceeds upon stimulation of the porphyrin moieties through illumination or by an applied current. This potential for dual stimulation provides the opportunity for utilization of the materials in sunlit or low light environments. Catalysis in aqueous solution and under ambient conditions in the absence of liquid water has been demonstrated. Target selectivity can be controlled through selection of porphyrin and sorbent characteristics. The spectrophotometric characteristics of the porphyrin catalytic component also offer the potential for self-reporting materials. Attachment of the materials to fabrics and surfaces has been demonstrated using standard techniques. Materials with activity against organophosphate pesticides, aromatic solvents, and nitroenergetics have been described.
References
ES
EARCH LA
BO
AL
AT
NAV
ORY
technology
AS
HING TON,