The synthesis of Pyridinium Salts for Electrochemical Applications

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Presenter(s)(s)

Johnny Drozd

Presentation Number

607

Abstract or Description

Abstract:

Pyridinium salts are particularly interesting materials due to their unique electrochemical properties which can be exploited for a variety of applications, including electrocatalysis and the development of anolyte materials for organic battery technology. In this study, the synthesis and redox properties of various pyridinium salts are explored. We have identified a cost effective and environmentally safe method for the synthesis of pyridinium salts using a Pyrilium intermediate. This synthetic method is also advantageous because it avoids the introduction of halogen ions which can negatively impact electrochemical performance. Novel Pyrilium salts were synthesized and characterized via NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. These Pyrilium salts were then converted into Pyridium salts through an efficient condensation process with a primary aromatic amine. The pyridinium products were also characterized via NMR and mass spectrometry. Their electrochemical properties were studied using Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV).

Mentor

Dr. Thomas Guarr

Comments

Isaac Spackman4 years ago

Nice presentation Johnny!
Can you tell us anything more about the potential applications of pyridinium salts? Do they have potential as electrode materials?
Also, how long did it take to cyclize the pyrilium under UV light?

• • 2 comments

Johnny Drozd4 years ago

Thanks Isaac! The pyrdinium salts, containing the bulky phenyl rings can have potential to show deposition onto the electrode. In my research I was using glassy carbon electrodes and was having difficulties getting these to deposit. I had plans to use Nafion to inhibit the deposition. Also, I was looking into some other methods of drop-casting onto the electrode before running Electrochemical tests. These are still viable options for research. I had also done a few tests using Platnium electrode, with a larger surface area to help promote the deposition. <br /><br />The photo-cyclization was a difficult process. It had taken roughly from 6-15 hours in the UV Chamber at MSUBI. There were a few things I was looking to change about this procedure. These include: closely monitor the concentration of the solution into the UV Chamber, using different solvents. and also Dr. Guarr and I had looked into using a different UV Chamber.

Isaac Spackman4 years ago

Thats very interesting! Thanks for the follow-up