Abstract:
Complexes containing first-row metals often show low efficiency in converting light to other forms of chemical energy due to ultrafast decay. The lifetimes for Fe(II) and Co(III) complexes can increase with the use of strong σ-donating ligands and highly conjugated groups. Despite recent advances in improving the photophysical properties of these complexes, existing ligand designs restrict further modification and are often synthetically challenging. In this talk, I will discuss how organic chromophores can be used to improve the photophysical properties of first-row photosensitizers. I will first showcase how the character of the excited states in Fe(II) and Co(III) complexes changes with increased π-conjugation. I will then explore how sulfur-bridged ligands can impact the structure, photophysics and photoreactivity of Co(III) and Cr(III) complexes. Finally, I will connect my research to my personal inspirations and roots. From growing up in a small town between Brazil and Argentina to the magic island and the sulfur odour that led me to the scientific path I follow today.