Phenylisonitrile Ligand Synthesis and Coordination to Cobalt to Form a Catalyst for the Selective Dimerization of Linear Alpha Olefins

Author

Colleen Hughes McAloon, Bowdoin CollegeFollow

Year of Graduation

2023

Level of Access

Restricted Access Thesis

Embargo Period

5-18-2023

Department or Program

Chemistry

First Advisor

Richard Broene

Abstract

Linear alpha olefins (LAOs) are used as precursors to various shampoos, lubricants, and detergents, and are essential within the petrochemical industry. The goal of this project is to develop a cationic cobalt catalyst for the linear dimerization of LAOs. The current catalyst yields an unfavorable branched‑to‑linear product ratio, which is due to the steric bulk of the supporting ligand. To optimize the formation of the linear product, various para‑substituted phenylisonitriles are synthesized as a less bulky supporting ligand. These ligands are successfully coordinated to the neutral pre‑catalyst, and the pre‑catalyst is activated with a strong acid in the presence of linear alpha olefins to test dimerization.