Synthesis and Characterization of Uranyl Complexes Featuring Photoactive Ligands
Uranium oxides, such as the uranyl cation UO22+, have been demonstrated to possess interesting photo-optical properties. Upon irradiation with sunlight, the uranyl cation can be excited to form a highly reactive species with oxyl radical character. Accordingly, our group believes that uranyl may be useful as a light-harvester and a hole transport medium in a photovoltaic device. At issue is the light absorption range of the uranyl cation, which absorbs in the high-visible to low UV, cutting out a large portion of the solar spectrum. In an effort to enhance the light absorption capacity of uranyl, we have been exploring its coordination chemistry with chromophoric ligands, including dipyrrinates (best known for their use in BODIPY dyes). Our project focuses on the synthesis of new uranyl complexes with photoactive ligands and study of their photochemical properties.