Prof. Trevor Hayton, University of California-Santa Barbara

Oxo ligand functionalization in the uranyl ion

The reduction of uranyl (UO22+) to U(IV) is relevant to both the speciation of uranium in the environment and the geological storage of spent nuclear fuel. Several recent studies on uranyl reduction suggest that this process occurs in a step-wise fashion, transiently generating the unstable pentavalent uranyl ion (UO2+). Our laboratory is exploring the synthesis and reactivity of pentavalent uranyl, in particular the reactivity of its two oxo ligands, in an attempt to model the microbial reduction of UO22+. We are also exploring the stability of the U(VI) and U(V) oxidation states, as a function of ligand environment, and we have synthesized a series of uranium alkoxide, amide and alkyl complexes to support these efforts.

Inorganic Divisional Seminar

For more information contact Prof. Jake Soper (404-894-4022).