Coordination Chemistry in action and IT in chemistry teaching

The noble metal platinum like other metals is found in compounds which do not behave like simple salts. Some of the most simple of these complexes are used with great effect in the treatment of certain cancer types. We have studied properties and reactions of such complexes in order to better understand their role in cancer chemotherapy.

Coloured complexes of another platinum group metal, ruthenium are used as the dye, which absorbs light in titanium oxide based solar cells. The chemical reactions taking place in the solar cells are complicated and are studied in this department, using a range of methods with special emphasis on the durability of the solar cells.

It takes quite an effort to master the translation between what you see on the one side and how you explain what you see by using chemical concepts and models on the other side. Laboratory exercises are a means to practice such translation. If supplemented by simulation programmes, these may serve as a real extension of laboratory time.

Home page: akira.ruc.dk/~phjens