Homogeneous Metal Complexes for Small Molecule Activation

Many organic syntheses rely on precious metal mediated reactions. Using a metal such as iron would be a distinct advantage as it is less expensive and less toxic, offering the possibility for greener processes. Because first row metals like iron have the propensity to undergo single and multi-electron redox processes, using ligands that can readily control this behavior allow the ability to perform a variety of selective organic transformations. Catalytic scope as well as spectroscopic electronic structure determination will be discussed.

Sterically pressured uranium complexes have been demonstrated to undergo a variety of reactions with small molecules. Recently, the activation of carbon dioxide was explored using mid and high valent uranium compounds. The substituents on the ligand framework were modified to evaluate the effect of the steric environment on the reactivity of uranium center, and the resulting complexes were characterized spectroscopically. These results, along with the development of a new ligand system for uranium will be presented.

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