The goal of this project is to synthesize, characterize, and study the properties of new silicon pincer compounds to enable more efficient organic electronic devices.
Research mentors
Tom Schmedake (CHEM) and Daniel Rabinovich (CHEM)
Description
Researchers in the Schmedake lab have synthesized a variety of hexacoordinate silicon-based complexes for electronic applications, including organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and organic photovoltaics OPVs. We focus on complexes that contain pincer ligands such as the 2,6-(bis-benzamidazol-2-yl)pyridine, bzimpy ligand (Figure 1) due to the advantageous properties this molecular motif provides, including high glass transition temperatures, excellent stability, and high charge mobility. This summer REU students will synthesize new hexacoordinate silicon complexes for OLED lighting applications.
Fig. 1. (left) Structure of Si(bzimpy)2, (center) Single-layer OLED design, (right) Si(pincer)2 OLED in operation.
REU Students’ Role
Students will contribute to this project by synthesizing and characterizing new Si(pincer)2 complexes. Students will also be involved with fabrication of prototype devices (OLEDs and/or OPVs) containing their Si(pincer)2 complexes. If students wish, there is an opportunity to be trained to operate the X-ray diffractometer for structural characterization. Students will be trained in lab protocols and safety procedures by the research mentor.