"Exploring the Synthesis and Characterization of Hetero- and Homometallic Clusters"

Abstract: Understanding how metals communicate is critical for a fundamental understanding of the elements, as well as pioneering new materials and catalysts. The use of metal clusters also enables the in-depth study of the reduction-oxidation chemistry of these metals. Here, I will focus on the synthesis of hetero- and homometallic non-aqueous clusters featuring f-elements. Through the reaction of a piano stool (C₅Me₅)MR₃ (M = U, Ti; R = Me, Bn) metal complex with a protic main group substrate based on N, O, or S, clusters with nuclearities ranging from three to six are isolated. Ti-f (f = U, Ce, Nd) clusters are built through further reactivity followed by reduction. With these results in hand, the spectroscopic, bonding, and reduction-oxidation properties will be further defined. Future efforts will focus on magnetic properties and small-molecule activation. These studies may also uncover new opportunities in multi-electron reduction processes mediated by the f-elements. I will also briefly discuss our efforts to outfit and stand up a laboratory for the handling of transuranium elements.