Northern Kentucky University
Continued Synthesis of a Fullerene-bipyridine Ligand for Photoelectric Applications
Institution
Northern Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Keith Walters
Abstract
The goal of this research project is to synthesize a super-molecular system that will transfer charge when exposed to a photon of light. The system consists of two parts that will be coupled to form a rigid, conjugated ligand. The first piece is a bipyridine "bridge," the second is a fullerene "handle" that will be attached to each end of the bridge. Currently the syntheses and characterizations of the fullerene end pieces, and the bipyridine bridge are underway. Once these two pieces are finished a coupling will be attempted. Upon completion of the fullerene-bipyridine ligand, a transition metal will be coordinated with the system and its photochemical properties will be investigated. The target molecule, when coordinated with a metal, could have great potential for uses in solar cells, molecular devices, or other applications where molecules need to react with light.
Continued Synthesis of a Fullerene-bipyridine Ligand for Photoelectric Applications
The goal of this research project is to synthesize a super-molecular system that will transfer charge when exposed to a photon of light. The system consists of two parts that will be coupled to form a rigid, conjugated ligand. The first piece is a bipyridine "bridge," the second is a fullerene "handle" that will be attached to each end of the bridge. Currently the syntheses and characterizations of the fullerene end pieces, and the bipyridine bridge are underway. Once these two pieces are finished a coupling will be attempted. Upon completion of the fullerene-bipyridine ligand, a transition metal will be coordinated with the system and its photochemical properties will be investigated. The target molecule, when coordinated with a metal, could have great potential for uses in solar cells, molecular devices, or other applications where molecules need to react with light.