The aim of this project is to understand the underlying structural factors and detailed mechanisms governing low-energy barrier stereoisomerisation of selected four and five co-ordinate main groups and transition metal complexes and to gain an insight into the light-driven rearrangements and electron-transfer properties.

The research will include: the rational design of polydentate ligands with varied complexing groups and containing chromophores; the evaluation of the structure and fluxional behaviour of these complexes using NMR and standard characterisation methods; energy transfer experiments using tunable lasers to carry out pump probe experiments inducing photochromism and molecular rearrangement; Raman electrochemical studies designed to follow electron transfer and distribution in the molecule and between the molecule and metal substrates; and theoretical studies of the electronic structure and inversion of stereochemical configuration at the metacentres in the around and excited states.

Photochromic compounds are of importance for uses such as light filters, molecular switches, sensors and security inks. Metal complexes combine many of the advantages of inorganic systems such as insolubility and stability with the flexibility and specificity of organic systems. Thus the chemistry of complexes could well provide superior materials for this purpose. The main problem is the lack of understanding and this fundamental project is designed to address this. Following a successful conclusion, the Smart Structure Institute at Strathclyde will aid in the development of key products for real applications. They have a wide range of contacts in electrical engineering, civil engineering and physics.