UCLA

This thesis contains results from three different projects as well as a perspective. In the first project, a nickel bromide complex supported by a non-innocent ferrocene-chelating heteroscorpionate ligand, [(fc(PPh2)(BH(3,5-Me2pz)2)NiBr] ((fcP,B)NiBr, fc = 1,1’-ferrocenediyl, pz = pyrazole), was synthesized and characterized. The compound can be readily oxidized according to UV-vis and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The catalytic activity of the complex’s different oxidation states in the polymerization of vinyl monomers was explored. AB and ABA-type block copolymers were made from styrene and p-chlorostyrene, offering an example of orthogonal redox control in radical polymerization. The second project focuses on organometallic scandium chemistry. The compound (salfen)ScCl (salfen = N,N’-bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenoxy)-1,1’-ferrocenediimine) was successfully synthesized and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Unfortunately, synthesis of alkoxide analogues of this scandium compound could not be cleanly achieved. The third project focuses on finding biodegradable alternatives to friction reducers used in hydraulic fracturing. Quenching experiments with poly(ethylene glycol) are attempted. Promising results are seen using poly(succinimide) derivatives. The perspective covers design principles in compartmentalization. Several examples showcasing different aspects of compartmentalization are covered. It is ultimately determined that structure and space are the two most important aspects to consider when designing a compartment.