A bio-inspired nanocage structure with hydrophobic carbosilane shell was formed by crosslinking vinyl end groups of a spherosilicate template, [Si8O12]-(OSiMe2CH2CH2CH2CHCOOSi(CH=CH2)3)8, with 1,4-bis-dimethylsilylbenzene. Hydrolysis of the silyl ester bonds of the template yielded a hydrophilic interior with carboxylic acid and silanol groups. Complexation of Co2(CO)8 with the interior functionalities in toluene to form Cox(CO)y was confirmed by 1H NMR, IR, and UV-vis spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry study further confirmed that the cobalt species resided in the cage interior. Oxidation resulted in the dissociation of CO and formation of cobalt (II) species. The catalytic behavior of the Co ions in a nano confined environment was explored. 

Amphiphilic poly(organosiloxane) nanocage with metal and acid functionalities

246th National Meeting (2013)

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