Structural, Electrochemical, and Catalytic Properties of Zinc and Iron Complexes Containing Redox Activeligands
Subject Area
Chemistry
Description
Erin Ostrowski ’22, Major: Chemistry
Lauren Peck ’23, Major: Chemistry
Sophia Moniodes ’22, Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Maria Carroll, Chemistry and Biochemistry
Rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are a major contributor to climate change. One approach to decreasing these levels involves replacing fossil fuels with cleaner fuels, like dihydrogen. Another approach involves converting the carbon dioxide to organic compounds that do not contribute to global warming. Our research project focuses on studying a class of metal complexes that are relevant to the design of new catalysts for two reactions: production of hydrogen and reduction of carbon dioxide. We study the electronic and structural properties of the complexes, as well as their reactivity, to assess their catalytic abilities. This research was conducted by synthesizing a series of zinc complexes with two different ligands of the general formula Zn(α-diimine)Cl2 and Zn(iminopyridine)Cl2 and iron complexes were synthesized with two different ligands of the general formula Fe(α-diimine)(CO)3 and Fe(iminopyridine)(CO)3. These complexes were characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. Cyclic voltammetry was used to determine how different substituents on the ligands affect the reduction potential of the complexes, which provides insight on the ability of the complexes to reduce carbon dioxide. Ultimately, through reactions with carbon dioxide and acid, we hope to elucidate the ability of these complexes to alleviate the global issue of climate change.
Publisher
Providence College
Date
4-28-2022
Type
Poster
Language
English
