The focus of this research is the development of synthetic methods for the preparation of novel aromatic compounds composed of alternating fused benzene and cyclobutadiene rings. Related structures include extended sp-carbon nets and heterocyclic analogs. The compounds may show superconducting behavior and their unique topology makes them viable precursors to novel hydrocarbon cages and related assemblies. Access to the compounds will be afforded via transition metal catalysis. %%% With this award, the Synthetic Organic Program is supporting the research of Dr. K. Peter C. Vollhardt of the Department of Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley. Professor Vollhardt will focus his work on the synthesis a new class of aromatic compounds known as the phenylenes. These compounds have interesting theoretical implications, could exhibit superconductive behavior and will serve as precursors to novel hydrocarbon cage assemblies.
