Research Interests

Youhong’s research focuses on structure-process-property relationships, especially those of composite materials, biomaterials, and aggregation induced emission fluorogens. See below for some example projects from Youhong’s research group.

Nanocomposites

This research uses nanomaterials to enhance the properties of materials. One example is the use of commercially available nanosilica for toughening fibre reinforced polymer laminates, or the use of polydopamine to improve the interface between fibres and the polymer matrix. These materials are being explored for their use in maritime applications.

AIEgen Application

Most fluorescent dyes have higher photoemission efficiencies in solution than in the solid state. Aggregation-induced emission fluorogens (AIEgens) are the reverse however, emitting more light when in the solid state. By controlling when AIEgens clump together into solid aggregates, selective and quantitative sensors may be developed. Youhong’s group contains several projects working on applying these novel molecules to develop new sensors for a range of problems.

Personal Health Monitoring

This project is developing a smartphone-based urinalysis device for chronic kidney disease patients. An aggregation-induced emission fluorogen (see above) is being used to develop a sensor to rapidly monitor human serum albumin in urine.