The Role of Nitrogen Protecting Groups for the Development of 1,10-Phenanthroline Sensors

Abstract

The role that nitrogen-protecting groups play in the development of 1,10-phenanthroline sensors for nerve agents was studied through the synthesis and spectral analysis of protected phenanthroline derivates. Protecting groups used included carbobenzyloxy (Cbz), tert-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc), and benzyl (Bn). Results indicate that the Boc protecting group was successfully attached to the desired nucleophile, 2-picolylamine. However, reactions involving Cbz- and Bn-groups resulted in impure product mixtures or recovered starting material. Optimizing the procedures is the next essential course of action in order to improve the synthesis of desired products. Once accomplished, protected compounds can be tested as chemical sensors, which will shed more light on the roles of these amino protecting groups.