The C–H functionalization approach embodies many of the drivers that motivate modern science and can be summarized as a truly sustainable strategy by four key statements;
1. As a primarily catalytic transformation only very small amounts of high value reagents (catalysts) are required to convert large amounts of feedstock chemicals into essential commodities.
2. Employing a C–H bond as the reaction partner removes the need for introduction or inter-conversion of functional groups, significantly expanding the scope of feedstock chemicals available for reaction and thus
3. considerably reducing the number of operations required to achieve a desired molecular change.
4. A meaningful reduction in the volume of hazardous waste generated by using the C–H bond as a reaction partner (typical byproducts include hydrogen and nitrogen gas or water).
Three strategies have been identified by the Center to impart selectivity in C–H Functionalization processes:
- Catalyst Controlled Site Selectivity: The design and synthesis of organometallic complexes with ligand architectures effective at guiding the substrate to the active site through steric and electronic interactions.
- Substrate-Chelation-Assisted Site Selectivity: Design and coordination of a transient assembly of substrate, organometallic complex and ‘template ligand’ that come together in a specific geometry to deliver the reactive site to a specific C–H bond. This strategy takes advantage of weak electronic coordination between a function group on the substrate and the catalyst / ligand assembly.
- Bio-Inspired Catalyst Site Selectivity: Using a combination of protein and substrate engineering to exploit the reactivity and exquisite selectivity of Nature’s enzymes to perform novel C–H functionalization reactions on a broad substrate scope.
The image below summarizes how the different research themes engage and interact with each other in our collaborative community.
Catalyst Design
RESEARCH
Mechanistic and Theoretical Studies
RESEARCH
Novel Disconnection Strategies
RESEARCH
Late-Stage C–H Functionalization
RESEARCH
Applications in the Material Sciences
RESEARCH
Applications in the Pharmaceutical Sciences
RESEARCH