Cyclomatrix Organophosphazene Superstructures

CYCLOPS project proposes a comprehensive investigation into the understanding and elucidation of the fundamental parameters which govern the synthesis of molecular- engineered hybrid materials, such as cyclomatrix organophosphazenes nanospheres and nanotubes (X-OPS). It is anticipated that the findings from this study will mark a major leap forward into our ability to exploit new hybrid materials with unique properties and applications. The effort so far on synthesis and characterisation has yielded many materials with highly promising properties, yet the fundamental chemistry that determines the structure and topology of X-OPS has been often overlooked. The major goal of CYCLOPS is to define the importance of the synthetic parameters and establish a revised philosophy, which will unlock the potential of this method for the rational design of novel X-OPS superstructures of unique properties. Such a step forward to a new level of primary understanding would open the way to innovative applications. X-OPS are also unique precursors for the facile preparation of microporous and multi-heteroatom doped carbons. One of the most interesting applications of these carbons is as anode active materials in rechargeable alkali-metal batteries. Hence in the final part of the project, a series of X-OPS-derived carbons will be electrochemically tested as anode electrodes in Na-ion batteries.