The �flat� Al13 cluster ([Al13(�3-OH)6(�-OH)18(H2O)2415+]) is a simple inorganic aluminum aqueous species that has rarely been studied because of the long reaction times and low yields of known synthetic procedures. We recently reported a new gram-scale aqueous synthesis of �flat� Al13 using zinc-metal as a reducing agent to control the pH of aluminum nitrate solutions. This work has now been extended to synthesis of the cluster via electrolysis. This approach provides a precise method for adjusting pH and controlling hydrolysis and condensation. Moreover, the precise control of pH has enabled us to conduct in-situ femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopic measurements on the solution, providing a direct method for monitoring the formation of condensed aluminum aqueous species as a function of pH. Here, we described the experimental design and electrolytic synthesis of �flat� Al13 and the speciation of aluminum nitrate solutions under controlled pathway conditions.

Electrolytic synthesis of [Al13(μ3-OH)6(μ-OH)18(H2O)2415+] cluster and speciation of aqueous aluminum solutions via femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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