Denitrification

The reduction of nitric oxide (NO) to nitrous oxide (N2O) by nitric oxide reductase (NOR) is an important component of the global nitrogen cycle; however, the mechanism of reduction is not well understood.  Here, synthetic chemistry can play an important role. We recently synthesized a unique Nickel(II) nitroxyl complex, [Ni(bipy)2(NO)][PF6], which may help in our understanding of NOR. On standing in acetonitrile, this complex furnishes the NO coupled product, [Ni(κ2-O2N2)(bipy)], in moderate yield. Subsequent addition of 2 equiv of acetylacetone (H(acac)) to [Ni(κ2-O2N2)(bipy)] results in formation of [Ni(acac)2(bipy)], N2O and H2O. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that the N–N bond in [Ni(κ2-O2N2)(bipy)] is formed via a bimetallic coupling reaction of two nitroxyl (NO–) ligands, a finding which may have implications on our understanding of nitric oxide reductase.

Publications

Researchers

Trevor W. Hayton

Our research involves the synthesis and characterization of new inorganic and organometallic complexes and materials. One goal of this work is to improve our understanding of the structure and bonding in transition metal, lanthanide, and actinide systems, as well as nanoclusters. We are also trying to discover new organic transformations mediated by metal centers.

Nate Hartmann

Nate's research involves the synthesis and characterization of new late metal coordination complexes (groups 9, 10, and 11) which feature metal-ligand multiple bonds.

Sabrina Kraeh

Sabrina is exploring the synthesis and reactivity of NO Dismutase model complexes.

Sophia Mock

Sophia is exploring the synthesis and reactivity of NO Dismutase model complexes.