RUI: Complexation Studies of Heavy Metal Ions by Crown Polythioethers and Related Macrocyclic Ligands

University Of Tennessee Chattanooga, Chattanooga TN

Investigators

Abstract

Gregory Grant, Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee Chattanooga, is supported by the Inorganic, Bioinorganic and Organometallic Chemistry Program for research on the complexation of heavy metals by crown polythioethers and mixed donor ligands. The research will study the influence of ring size and donor atom (sulfur, phosphorus, nitrogen, oxgen) on the stability and structure of metal complexes. Multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, including 199-Hg, 113-Cd and 207-Pb NMR will provide detailed structural information about these complexes in solution. Complexation chemistry has potential impacts in environmental remediation, catalysis, medicinal chemistry, separations and electrochemical sensors. This research project will provide fundamental understanding of the metal-ligand interactions in these complexes. This award is made under the "Research in Undergraduate Institutions Program" and emphasizes the intergration of teaching and research at undergraduate institutions. Undergraduate researchers will learn important skills in synthesis and characterization of these chemical compounds.