About the Seminar:

The Matson Group is investigating the synthesis, characterization and reactivity of multimetallic metal-oxide assemblies. Our principle interests rest in the exploration of unique redox properties and cooperative reactivity of heterometallic assemblies for multielectron chemical processes. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of a family of vanadium oxide clusters, which serve as molecular models for surface-functionalized and doped nanoparticles. These hexavanadate architectures studied by our laboratory are soluble in organic solvent and constitute monodisperse, crystalline systems that can be characterized by ¹H NMR, infrared and electronic absorption spectroscopies, as well as cyclic voltammetry and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Our ability to install cationic and anionic dopants in the form of transition metal ions, oxygen-atom vacancies and halide-defect sites allows for the interrogation of electronic phenomenon resulting from these atomically precise modifications. This work furthers our understanding the physicochemical consequences of modifications of surface chemistry of nanoscale systems and the incorporation of elemental dopants, fostering the development of new strategies for storing renewable power (e.g. wind, solar) through its conversion to electrochemical energy and chemical fuels.