
Prof. Nilay Hazari, Dept. of Chemistry, US
Polyaminoboranes (PABs) represent unexplored BN analogues of polyolefins that have unique chemical composition, stability, thermal conductivity and electrical properties. This represents potential next-generation materials essential for
high performance applications in extreme environments. The Weller group in York has recently discovered a simple method to efficiently synthesise PAB on scale (50 g plus) using small amounts of organometallic catalyst. However, such small amounts means that trace impurities in solvent and feedstock become important, requiring a catalyst that has the ability to withstand (and repair) these deactivation processes. The Hazari group at Yale has recently developed a set of catalysts with ligands that can potentially act to self-heal in PAB synthesis. By combining the expertise of the two groups this project will develop a new, more efficient class of amine-borane dehydropolymerisation catalyst. The successful applicant will develop lab skills in York, learning about PAB synthesis, and then head to Yale, where they will test and develop the new catalyst systems. The new materials made will be evaluated back in York. Students will need to organise their own accommodation and be expected to present their findings orally at a research day in York in September 2025.