We are investigating surface-immobilized metal complexes bearing vacant coordination sites for reactions with oxygen, carbon monoxide, nitrogen monoxide or other molecules of interest. We have recently synthesized a propargylated derivative of bis(acetylacetone)ethylenediimine (�acacen�). By doing so, we have functionalized this classic quadridentate ligand so that it may be attached to azide-derivatized electrode surfaces using �click� chemistry. Acacen is able to bind a variety of metals, including vanadium, manganese, or cobalt to form catalytically active complexes for oxygen atom transfer. Furthermore, we have some flexibility to incorporate additional functional groups in the ligand framework. IR reflectance spectroscopy can be used to monitor the presence and reactivity of these complexes on gold surfaces. In addition, electrochemical methods are being employed to probe the ability of the resulting complexes to bind small ligands and to catalyze chemical reactions at the surface of gold electrodes.

Modification of an acacen ligand for use in “click” chemistry

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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