Abstract:
The extension of the Creutz-Taube ion into an extended framework composed of mixed-valence ruthenium metal centers bridged by pyrazine organic spacers is described starting from pyrazine containing ruthenium precursors. The synthesis of a novel ruthenium(III) complex, [RuCl_2 (pyz)_4][BF_4] (where pyz = pyrazine), is described. The reaction of ruthenium precursors at high temperatures in a sealed reactor vessel yields a semiconducting, crystalline material, believed to be either a one- or two-dimensional network of ruthenium metal centers bridged by pyrazine, and is currently being studied under synchrotron x-ray diffraction experiments in order to determine the structure. The synthesis of cobalt precursors for an analogous experiment to form cobalt-based frameworks is reported. The synthesis of a novel anthracene-based protected tetrathiol is described, and reactions metal salts in various solvents to form extended frameworks has been attempted. Progress on the synthesis of alkyl-protected benzene selenols is reported, and initial reactions with lead salts are described.
