A continued search for the development of low cost catalysts for artificial photosynthetic systems for water oxidation is the ultimate goal for sustainable energy. The cobalt oxo cubane, Co4O4 clusters such as Co4O4(OAC)4(Py)4  has been the focus of recent investigations due to its utility as a water oxidation catalyst. In this project we have introduced electron withdrawing groups such as Fluorine in the pyridine ring with an aim to make more robust cubes, that will tolerate low pH conditions. This presentation describes the synthesis of fluorinated cobalt cubes that has the potential application as catalysts for the water splitting process. Mass spectral and X-ray structural data of some of these fluorinated compounds are presented. Screening tests using (CF3Py)4Co4O4 as catalyst  for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehye was successful.

Synthesis of fluorinated cobalt oxo cubanes: Catalysts for water oxidation

2019 Fall National Meeting

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