Interlocked host structures for anion recognition and metal nanoparticles for catalysis and sensing applications

Thesis

This thesis describes the synthesis and anion recognition properties of a variety of interlocked host receptors and the application of metal nanoparticles in the areas of catalysis and sensing.

Chapter One introduces the field of anion supramolecular chemistry, with particular emphasis on areas relevant to the research discussed in later chapters. Following this, the synthesis and applications of metal nanoparticles are outlined.

Chapter Two details the synthesis of a range of halo-triazolium based rotaxanes and explores the effects of altering both the halogen bond donor atom and degree of preorganisation on the anion recognition properties of the interlocked host system. A halogen bond containing catenane is also prepared and its anion binding properties investigated.

Chapter Three initially reports the anion-templated synthesis of a series of neutral pyridine N-oxide axle containing rotaxanes before their ability to recognise anions in aqueous solvent mixtures is studied. Attempts to enhance anion binding through the incorporation of a positive charge into the macrocyclic component of the rotaxane structure are also explored.

Chapter Four outlines the preparation of β-cyclodextrin functionalised metal nanoparticles and investigations of their catalytic and sensing properties.

Chapter Five describes in detail the synthetic and analytical procedures discussed in chapters two to four.

Chapter Six summarises the conclusions of this thesis.

Authors: Mercurio, JM

• Publication date: 2014
• DOI: 10.5287/ora-nzygoaovw
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: Nanoparticles; Catalysis; Rotaxanes; Anion Recognition; Supramolecular Chemistry
• Subjects: Catalysis; Art; Nanomaterials; Supramolecular chemistry; Inorganic chemistry