Porphyrin-based porous polymers for CO2 capture and conversion

Mathematical and Physical Sciences: 1st Place (The Ohio State University Edward F. Hayes Graduate Research Forum)Porous organic polymers (POPs) are a diverse group of two-dimensional (2D) polymeric materials that can be used in many applications including gas storage, catalysis, and optoelectronic devices. The gas storage ability of POPs is of particular interest to the scientific community as researchers investigate ways to sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) in order to combat global warming. POPs specially designed for CO2 uptake have been optimized to hold up to 27% CO2 by weight. While storage of CO2 is vital, it cannot be stored indefinitely. Ultimately, CO2 must be converted into other compounds that are useful chemical feedstocks. There are a number of methods for converting CO2 into value-added chemicals, however most require expensive single-use catalysts or other harsh conditions to achieve. Discovery of cheaper, milder, and re-usable methods of CO2 conversion will jump-start the widespread use of this abundant carbon source. Metalloporphyrins are an attractive group of catalysts for a variety of different reactions, which are well studied in porous materials. The purpose of this project is to combine the catalytic ability of metalloporphyrins with the gas uptake capability of POPs to convert CO2 to value-added chemicals with a recyclable catalyst. We have successfully synthesized and characterized the control polymer with non-metallated porphryins. The control polymers show moderately high surface areas up to 700 m2/g based on their N2 uptake. Their CO2 uptake is 4.8% by weight, which is comparable to other porphyrin-based porous polymers. Initial results indicate the porphyrin is able to reduce CO2 by a hydrosilation reaction.A three-year embargo was granted for this item