Synthesis and Characterization of Diamino Dibenzocyclooctane

Nathan Mugande

This study describes the synthesis and characterization of Diamino Dibenzo Cyclooctane (DADBCO) and its application in reducing the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of epoxy mirrors used in telescopes. DADBCO is synthesized from α,α'-dibromo-o-xylene in a complex reaction process, followed by characterization using proton and carbon NMR spectroscopy to determine the products' connectivity. Various isomers of DADBCO are separated using techniques such as chromatography and kugelhorr distillation. The cis-isomer of DADBCO is then incorporated into epoxy mirrors to reduce the CTE. The incorporation of DADBCO improves the reliability and durability of the mirrors with temperature changes. This study highlights the importance of modifying materials' properties to improve their performance in specific applications.

• Nathan Mugande is a third-year international student from Zimbabwe doing a combined M.B.A. and Chemistry degree(pre-med). At Lander, he was crowned Mr. Lander 2022 and has held other positions as a Chemistry and biology tutor, presidential ambassador, and is currently the incoming student liaison.