Athena Bennani

Abstract:

A series of biphenyl ligands varying in carbon chain length were synthesized via Steiglich esterification. Attachment of these ligands to mesotetrakis (4-hydroxylphenyl) Porphyrin, followed by the metallation of this Porphyrin are underway. The product will be studied thermodynamically and then tested as a sensor for the detection of volatile organic compounds in environmental settings. Synthesis, purification, and characterization of the biphenyl ligands have been accomplished and efforts are focused on improving the yield of the tetrasubstituted Porphyrin products.