Synthesis and characterisation of new ligands for construction of 2D organometallic networks

Abstract

This project explores the synthesis and characterization of 2,3,8,9,14,15-hexahydroxy-5,6,11,12,17,18-hexaazatriphenylene (HATNA-[OH]6), a novel organometallic ligand, focussing on it and its precursors. This is due to their utility as electrodes which enable high performance of next-generation sodium-ion batteries via redox mechanisms, and potassium-ion batteries in the form of 2D metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). MOFs are a class of porous polymers which exhibit superior separation and adsorption properties. Two synthesis routes were attempted to create the HATNA-[OH]6 product, but neither pathway was able to obtain the final product at the end of the project due to unexpected experimental difficulties. During the process, 1H-NMR and FTIR analysis of the products were done throughout to verify the composition of the products. Possible solutions to these experimental issues are thus proposed.