Hybrid photocatalytic systems have been used extensively for CO2 reduction and other environmentally relevant processes. However, the effect of the linking unit which connects the molecular catalyst to the semiconducting surface hasn’t been explored. In particular, synthetic modification of a cyclam ligand is a challenging undertaking, and care must be taken not to disrupt the ligand coordination sphere, as the catalytic reactivity may be altered. We have devised a modular synthetic strategy utilizing a Co metal template which allows for rapid functionalization of a Co-cyclam through an SN2 coupling to any alkyl halide linker bearing an anchoring group. This allows for the systematic study on the influence of the linkers in such catalytic systems by facilitating an efficient route to the synthesis of multiple Co-cyclam structures bearing different linkers. These Co-cyclam catalysts will be anchored to either metal oxide or carbon nitride surfaces by covalent or non-covalent linkages and the hybrid material tested for solar driven CO2 reduction.

Co-Cyclam catalyst ligand design for hybrid photocatalytic CO2 reduction

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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