Robert Francke

Optimizing Electron Transfer Mediators Based on Arylimidazoles by Ring Fusion: Synthesis, Electrochemistry, and Computational Analysis of 2-Aryl-1-methylphenanthro[9,10-d]imidazoles

A significant improvement of the properties of redox catalysts based on the triarylimidazole framework can be achieved with a simple structural modification. By linking the ortho-carbons of the aromatics positioned at C-4 and C-5, a fused framework is generated, removing the distortion from planarity and enhancing the influence of the substituents on the redox properties. This modification leads not only to a much broader range of available redox potentials for the resulting phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazoles but also to improved stability of the corresponding radical cation. These concepts were verified with eight new phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole derivatives, using cyclic voltammetry and DFT calculations. For this purpose, an optimized and general synthetic route to the desired compounds was developed. An excellent linear correlation of the calculated effective ionization potentials with the experimental oxidation potentials was obtained, allowing for an accurate prediction of oxidation potentials of derivatives yet to be synthesized. Moreover, high catalytic activity was found for electro-oxidative C-H activation reactions.

Synthesis of Highly Fluorinated 2,2′-Biphenols and 2,2′-Bisanisoles

Multiply fluorine-substituted iodo anisoles are efficiently coupled in an Ullmann-type reaction to provide the corresponding bisanisoles. The coupling is selective and even tolerates bromo moieties. Subsequent deprotection of hydroxy groups gives access to highly fluorinated biphenols.

Azolylborates for Electrochemical Double Layer Capacitor Electrolytes

Abstract Asymmetric tetraalkylammonium salts of azolylborates were synthesized and studied with respect to their suitability as supporting electrolytes in electrochemical double layer capacitors. In contrast to current conducting salts used in this device, azolylborates exhibit an excellent stability towards thermal load and moisture. In addition to good conductivity and stability towards cathodic reduction we found certain limitations when more positive potentials were applied.