Electrocatalytic proton reduction by thiolate-capped triiron clusters [Fe3(CO)93-SR)(μ-H)] (R = iPr, tBu)

Shishir Ghosh, Sucharita Basak-Modi, Michael G. Richmond, Ebbe Nordlander, Graeme Hogarth

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The redox behaviour and electrocatalytic proton reduction ability of the thiolate-capped triiron clusters [Fe3(CO)93-SR)(μ-H)] (1, R = iPr; 2, R = tBu) have been investigated. In CH2Cl2, both show a quasi-reversible reduction and an irreversible oxidation. The thiol substituent has a significant influence on their reduction potentials (E1/2 = −1.24 V for 1 and E1/2 = −1.40 V for 2 vs. Fc+/Fc) but less impact on oxidation potentials (E1/2 = 0.99 V for 1 and E1/2 = 0.93 V for 2 vs. Fc+/Fc). Reduction is quasi-reversible and DFT studies reveal that this is due to scission of an iron-iron bond. While the clusters are not protonated by CF3CO2H or HBF4·Et2O, they can catalyse proton reduction of these acids at their corresponding reduction potentials following an ECEC mechanism.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)47-53
Number of pages7
JournalInorganica Chimica Acta
Volume480
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018 Aug 1

Subject classification (UKÄ)

  • Inorganic Chemistry

Free keywords

  • DFT studies
  • Electrocatalytic proton reduction
  • Thiolate
  • Triiron clusters

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