Low coordinate main group compounds: Reagents for small molecule activation and building blocks for heavy multiple bonds

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As the global demand for energy increases, so does our need to explore alternative energy sources to fossil fuels. Using alternative fuel sources instead of burning hydrocarbons benefits us environmentally and economically, both as a country and as an international community. Hydrogen, which is a "green energy source" that results in water as the only by-product from its combustion, is one source of energy under consideration. When screening potential energy sources the delivery system and storage for consumers must be considered. Although hydrogen can be stored as a pressurised gas, it is potentially hazardous. Hydrogen, however, can be stored safely in chemical bonds. In order for a compound to be a candidate for chemical hydrogen storage, it must be able to add hydrogen, forming new element-hydrogen bonds, then release hydrogen gas when needed for combustion. We will be examining the reactivity of novel dicoordinate Group 15 cations, Group 13 anions and electron-rich, low-oxidation state Group 14 compounds towards hydrogen addition and release, with the goals of developing a system for safe and practical hydrogen storage in chemical bonds. We will also be looking at the reactivity of these compounds towards other small molecules such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and ammonia.