The complete understanding of a clusters electronic structure, the primary mechanisms for its properties and stabilization is necessary in order to functionalize them for use as building blocks within novel materials. First principle theoretical studies have been carried out upon the electronic properties of CrxTey (x = 1 – 6, y = 0 – 8, x + y ≤ 14), as well as for the larger triethylphosphine (PEt3) ligated cluster system of Cr6Te8(PEt3)6. Together, we aim to use the information garnered from the smaller clusters to address the underlying behavior of the ligated Cr6Te8(PEt3)6. Additionally, the properties of this larger cluster will be used to further understand its role when paired with C60 within the binary cluster assembled material. The stability and macroscopic properties of the Cr6Te8(PEt3)6 cluster, have been found to be sensitive to type of passivating ligand.
As will be shown, the ground state structures of Crn atoms are sensitive to both the number and position of bonded Te atoms. Moreover, that this sensitivity carries over into larger cluster sizes, and at several size intervals produces clusters with high magnetization. To this, we add the investigation into the manipulation of the Cr6Te8 cluster geometry and its properties through various ligands, such as PH3, CO, and CN. It will show, that in altering these ligands there is a modification to the clusters valence shell count, which in turn alters its ionization potential and electron affinity. Additionally, although the ionization potential and electron affinity have changed for the Cr6Te8(PEt3)6 cluster, it has been found that its high magnetization does not.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:vcu.edu/oai:scholarscompass.vcu.edu:etd-6047 |
| Date | 01 January 2017 |
| Creators | Pedicini, Anthony F |
| Publisher | VCU Scholars Compass |
| Source Sets | Virginia Commonwealth University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | Theses and Dissertations |
| Rights | © The Author |
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