Organometallic main group chemistry Strained molecules and reactive intermediates

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The heavier group 13 elements Al, Ga, and In play an important role in our modern life. Apart from aluminum's obvious presence as a bulk metal and as a component in alloys, organometallic alanes are indirectly present in the form of polymers (Ziegler/Natta type polymerization) and electronic devices (Chemical Vapor Deposition, CVD). The dearth of basic knowledge about organometallic aluminum compounds contrasts with the importance of the element. Gallium is the key component in modern electronic devices; e.g., GaAs is the second most important semiconductor known today. Indium is used in alloys and in semiconductor materials as an essential doping agent. Our main research activities are focused on the chemistry of the heavier group 13 elements aluminum, gallium, and indium. Our program can be divided in two main areas. 1. Organometallic synthesis. Recently we have synthesized novel strained ferrocene derivatives. The strain in these molecules is generated by a group 13 element bridge. Similar species have been shown to form novel polymers with potential applications. In this area of our research program, we intend to synthesize new strained molecules that can be used as precursors for new materials. 2. Matrix isolation and mass spectrometry. We will use both methods to identify highly reactive molecules that occur in the course of material depositions starting from gaseous molecules. This so-called Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) is a technique to produce well-defined thin layers of desired materials. Our program aims at a deeper understanding of the molecular species involved in CVD processes. Based on these insights, improvements of the materials are expected in the future.