Reactions of dithianitronium hexafluoroarsenate(v) and some plasma studies

This work is chiefly concerned with the varied reactions of the compound dithianitronium hexafluoroarsenate(V), [SNS]AsF(_6).Chapter one provides a brief review of the properties and uses of [SNS][AsF(_6)], and chapter two outlines the experimental techniques required in this area of chemistry. Chapter three describes the synthesis and characterisation of ortho- substituted 1,3,2,4-dithiadiazohum salts, along with two crystal structures and reduction studies. The fourth and fifth chapters outline reactions of [SNS]AsF(_6)] with double and single bonds respectively, to form novel cations. Chapter six demonstrates the surface area expansion of silver when subjected to several plasma oxidation/reduction cycles. Appendix I outlines the synthesis and characterisation of the radical cation [NSSNCC(_6)H(_4)CNSNS]+.[AsF(_6)]. Appendix II illustrates the ability of [PhNSNSNPh][AsF(_6)] to polymerise thf. Appendix III lists colloquia, lectures and seminars attended by the author, and appendix IV contains supplementary crystallographic data.