# Reactions and Properties of Nitrogen-Based Reactive Intermediates

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Maryland, College Park (MD) · $400,000

## Abstract

In this project, funded by the Chemical Mechanism, Function, and Properties Program of the Chemistry Division, Professor Daniel E. Falvey of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Maryland, College Park will examine unconventionally bonded molecular ions that contain electron-deficient nitrogen atoms. These species, which include nitrenium ions and several related structures, have been shown to have interesting electronic and magnetic properties that could potentially be harnessed for important applications such as advanced energy storage solutions, quantum computing, novel digital memory devices, optoelectronic sensors, etc. However, the few examples that have been carefully examined are unstable, often existing for only fractions of a second, inhibiting any technological advances. An important goal of the project will be to learn what types of modifications to the molecular structures of these ions will stabilize them yet still preserve the desirable electronic and magnetic properties. The set of structures that prove to be less stable will be studied for a different set of applications. In this case their high reactivity can be used to chemically modify proteins in a way that will convert them into therapeutic or bioimaging agents. The undergraduate and graduate students that participate in this project will receive training and experience in computer modeling of molecular properties and reactions, organic synthesis, and advanced spectroscopic te

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2453868
- **Awardee organization:** University of Maryland, College Park (MD)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NPU8ULVAAS23
- **PI:** Daniel E Falvey
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Biotechnology
- **Estimated total:** $400,000
- **Funds obligated:** $400,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2453868

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2453868, Reactions and Properties of Nitrogen-Based Reactive Intermediates. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2453868. Licensed CC0.

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