Afsaneh's research
Presentation title: Synthesis and Characterization of Aromatic and Aliphatic Cyclic Diazides for the Preparation of Phosphasalen Ligands
Abstract: Plastics are ubiquitous in our daily lives; however, they remain in the environment for centuries. Polylactide (PLA), is produced from lactide, and possesses many properties similar to petroleum-based plastics, but is biodegradable. However, making high-quality PLA in large amounts is a challenge. The Hayes group is currently working to design special metal-based catalysts to improve PLA production using phosphasalen ligands. One of the key reagents for the generation of these compounds is a diazide, which is reacted with phosphines. This project aims to synthesize new diazides which will be used to develop new lactide polymerization catalysts.
