Photochemical Studies of Fullerene-Based Multicomponent Molecular Assemblies

Arizona State University, Scottsdale AZ

Investigators

Abstract

With this renewal proposal the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program continues its support for the work of Drs. Devens J. Gust, Anna L. Moore, and Thomas A. Moore of the Department of Chemistry at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Initial studies will involve carotenoid/porphyrin/fullerene (C-P-C60) triads, with photoexcitation leading to long lived C.+-P-C60.- charge separated states. These will lead to large synthetic porphyrin arrays linked to fullerene electron acceptors. Linking spiropyrans is expected to lead to light-activated switches. Finally, a cell-like vesicle-based system for conversion of light energy to chemical potential will be developed. The work is aimed at the synthesis and investigation of the next generation of molecular photochemical energy conversion apparatus, mimicing the elements of natural photosynthesis: electronic excitation, charge separation, a transmembrane proton gradient, and energy storage in chemical products. In addition to the fundamental understanding developed, there is a real potential for the development of practical photoelectronic devices, including switches activated by light, and cells which convert solar energy into stored chemical energy more efficiently than green plants. The project requires a combination of many skills and techniques (organic chemistry, spectroscopy, biochemistry, and quantum chemistry) and should provide excellent training for the students involved.