The actinyl cation (D∞h point group) possesses symmetric and asymmetric stretching modes that are typically Raman and Infrared active, respectively. Lowering the symmetry of the actinyl moiety will activate both modes causing two stretching bands to be present within the spectral window. While activation of these bands suggests perturbation to the actinyl bond, there is currently a limited understanding on how intermolecular forces influence this process or the extent of the effect on the actinyl bond. In this presentation, I will focus on the analysis of Raman spectra associated with neptunyl (NpO2+/NpO22+) coordination compounds and related aqueous solutions. Specifically, the impacts of counterions and hydrogen bonding will be explored experimentally and compared to theoretical calculations. In addition, the neptunyl system will be compared to the related uranyl complexes to further explore the subtle differences in bonding within actinyl cations.

Activation of the actinyl asymmetric stretching band in Raman spectroscopy:  How, when, and why

2019 Spring National Meeting

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