DONNA NARSAVAGE-HEALD, Ph.D.
Associate Professor

Department of Chemistry
University of Scranton
Scranton, PA  18510
Phone: 570-941-4231
Fax: 570-941-7510

Email me at: narsavaged1@scranton.edu


Courses I Teach
General and Analytical Chemistry (Chem 112 & Chem 113)
Introduction to Polymer Chemistry (Chem 464/564)

Polymer Chemistry Lab (Chem 464L/564L)

Elements of Chemistry (Chem 100)




Research Interests
 
Polyborosilazanes have been the focus of several research projects in my group in recent years.  We have studied their synthesis, characterization, gelation, film formation, conversion to ceramic products, and most recently their ability to act as a protective coating in composites.  For more information, see our recent publication in Chemistry of Materials (Schmidt, W. R.; Narsavage-Heald, D. M.; Jones, D. M.; Marchetti, P. S.; Raker, D; Maciel, G. E.  "Poly(borosilazane) Precursors to Ceramic Nanocomposites", Chemistry of Materials, 1999, 11, 1455.).

My students and I recently began a new project in the area of dental composites.  We are making modifications to the filler of bis-GMA based composites in an effort to improve their properties.

Additional research projects in my group include the synthesis of polysiloxazanes, silicon containing dendrimers, and hyperbranched polymers.
 



Green Chemistry
 
Green chemistry is defined as the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. The ultimate goal of green chemistry or environmentally benign chemistry is to prevent pollution at the source.  At the University of Scranton we have been involved in bringing green chemistry into the classroom because we think it is essential that future scientists are taught to view chemistry with a green tint.

Through the support from The Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation Special Grant Program in the Chemical Sciences, several faculty members at Scranton developed green chemistry modules for specific chemistry courses.  I authored two of these modules, one intended for use in a General Chemistry course and the other in a Polymer Chemistry course.



My CV   vita



Personal Interests
In my free time I enjoy hiking, cross country skiing, kayaking, cooking, gardening, reading, and spending time with my husband Joe and dog Muffy.

Check out more pictures of Muffy.


Missy was a Neardie (nearly a Beardie, a mix breed Bearded Collie) who was a loyal companion and friend for many years.  In the photo below, she was taking a break while hiking along the Appalachain Trail.




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