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T. Keith Hollis
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Basic Synthetic Methodology
A few years ago, the Hollis Group developed the seminal methodologies that allow access to a new class of organometallic pincer complexes: CCC-NHC ligands. These molecules contain two donor N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) with no spacer between the central aryl donor and the NHC donors. The core of the synthesis starts with a Cu catalyzed aryl amination that we routinely perform on the 120 g scale. It is followed by an alkylation by simple nucleophilic substitution.
The metalation/transmetalation strategy seen below has proven highly successful as the Hollis group has now prepared examples from almost every group in the transition metal series.
Materials for Light-Based Interactions:OLEDs and Photovoltaics
The search for renewable, effcient sources of energy has become the Grail Quest of the 21st Century. One of the most appealing solutions involves the use of solar power as a cheap, abbundant source of energy. While a multi-pronged aaproach to a sustainable future is required, our group is focused on developing, characterizing, and engineering materials for improving photovoltaic (PV) efficiency. The CCC-NHC Pt complex depicted below absorbs UV light, acts as a blue emitter (a much needed color for OLEDs), and is photostable for extended periods of time. Here is a video demonstrating it's effectiveness. Link
CCC-NHC Organometallic Complexes for Catalytic Transformations and Asymmetric Catalysis
Complexes prepared for the first time in the Hollis research group have been demonstrated to be effective for the formation of C-N bonds (hydroamination), C-Si (hydrosilylation), C-C and C-B bonds (Michael addition).
CCC-NHC Zr(NMe2)I complex
CCC-NHC Pt-Cl complex