Research

Coordination Chemistry of the f-Elements

Despite their often significant importance in various applications, the coordination chemistry of f-elements is still underdeveloped. The importance of lanthanides for modern technical applications is steadily increasing, while recycling and separation remain challenging. Some fundamental aspects of lanthanide and actinide coordination chemistry, which are needed to drive further developments, are still not well understood. Therefore, we are interested in fundamental aspects of f-element coordination chemistry, as well as in the development of applications for unusual properties of f-elements.

Current projects: Coordination chemistry of uranium

In order to produce nuclear power, the fissile 235U isotope needs to be enriched. During this process, large amounts of so-called depleted uranium (with a decreased 235U fraction) is produced. Even though many countries in Europe have started to phase out nuclear power, over 1 Mio. tonnes of depleted uranium have been accumulated worldwide. The current uses are very limited: Mainly for ammunition, tank armour or as counter weights for ships and planes.
Our group is interested in developing more technically advanced uses for this waste product. While the organometallic and non-aqueous chemistry of uranium has evolved more rapidly during the last two decades, the understanding of its bonding and reactivity is still lagging behind compared to the transition metals. It has already emerged, though, that uranium often possesses very unique properties different to both transition metals and lanthanoids. We’re therefore developing new ligand systems to explore the non-aqueous uranium coordination chemistry. Our interests range from the fundamental understanding of bonding and reactivity patterns towards applications in catalysis and materials. By combining various experimental, spectroscopic and computational methods, we ensure the best possible understanding of our systems.