Probing the cluster/surface analogy - reactivity studies on cluster-bound arenes,styrenes and cycloalkenes

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Project objective

Research objectives and content The objective of this research is to define the reactivity of cluster-coordinated arenes, styrenes and cycloalkenes toward nucleophiles and reducing agents such as hydrogen. Organometallic clusters have been used as models for the study of chemical processes on metallic surfaces. This study will provide better insight into the validity of such an analogy. The research will contribute to the understanding of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation as mediated by metallic cores. Finally, this project is relevant to industrial processes of hydrotreating and reformation. Our investigation will focus on the new family of organometallic clusters containing small cyclic unsaturated molecules, recently developed by Johnson and co-workers. Some of these complexes dehydrogenate arenes and allylic substrates, but their reactivity has not been systematically studied. This study will lead to the characterization and synthesis of new clusters, probable intermediates of the catalytic processes of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation; to a better understanding of the validity of the cluster-surface analogy through reactivity studies; and finally, if this analogy proves substantial, to new insight in the dynamics of surface-mediated hydrogenation and dehydrogenation of unsaturated molecules. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) Gain experience in cluster chemistry in a leader European research group. Acquire solid state and surface science related skills for wich the host is a highly qualified trainer because he is an expert in such field and possesses on of the most advanced equipment . Growth as an independent researcher in one of the best European academic institution. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)

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Participants

• University of Cambridge · CambridgeCoordinatorUnited Kingdom

Links

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