Uranyl peroxide cage clusters (UPCs) are polyoxometalates in which uranyl cations are linked together via peroxo and hydroxo bridges. The open-core, cage-like structures arise from the bent peroxo-uranyl-peroxo dihedral angle. Increasing our understanding of UPC chemistry is of interest due to their potential applications in the nuclear fuel cycle. UPCs are typically synthesized in aqueous solutions via the reaction of uranyl species with a peroxide source to form studtite [(UO2)O2(H2O)2]2(H2O) and subsequent addition of base. Although water molecules are an important component in the crystallization of UPCs, preliminary work indicates uranyl and peroxo sources can dissolve into a wide variety of ionic liquids, as well as glycerol. We hypothesize that UPCs may form in a nonaqueous solvent containing dissolved uranyl, peroxide, and a suitable base. Fine-tuning the solubility of UPCs in nonaqueous solvents may allow for the crystallization of UPCs with a minimal amount of water present. The presence of UPCs in solution will be investigated using Raman spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and small-angle X-ray scattering. In the event of crystal formation, the solids will be characterized using single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Nonaqueous synthesis of uranyl peroxide cage clusters

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.