Jian HE, Professor from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), is leading a research project that aims to transform organic synthesis. His group has created a new heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that effectively forms cyclobutane rings, an essential structural component of a wide range of bioactive compounds.
Development of heterogeneous copper photocatalysis for intermolecular crossed [2+2] cycloadditions. Image Credit: Adapted from Nature Catalysis Propylene Oxide Prices
Pharmaceuticals, natural goods, and various physiologically active substances all contain cyclobutane rings. Professor Jian He and his colleagues have given researchers more control over synthesizing these essential compounds by enabling the rapid and selective creation of these rings. The research was published in Nature Catalysis.
During the last twenty years, photochemical [2+2] cycloadditions have been facilitated by visible-light photocatalysts; however, their range of substrates has been restricted. Homogenous precious metal catalysts are also a common component of existing photocatalytic systems, which makes recycling catalysts difficult and limits the possibility of large-scale organic synthesis.
To overcome these constraints, Professor He and his group have created a novel heterogeneous copper photocatalyst. For various intermolecular crossing [2+2] cycloadditions, including some previously unattainable by traditional homogeneous photocatalysis, this catalyst efficiently supports energy-transfer procedures.
This new reaction system is more environmentally and economically sustainable because it does not rely on precious metals and has outstanding catalyst stability and recyclability.
Our novel heterogeneous copper photocatalyst opens up new possibilities for synthesizing bioactive molecules with enhanced efficiency and selectivity. By eliminating the reliance on precious metals and improving catalyst recyclability, we have addressed critical challenges in large-scale organic synthesis, paving the way for more sustainable and economically viable chemical production.
Jian HE, Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Hong Kong
The researchers in this work created a unique type of copper photocatalyst that can aid in the more effective synthesis of cyclobutane molecules. They could create binap-ligated heteroleptic copper(I) complexes in the pores of zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and produce a stable heterogeneous copper triplet photosensitizer.
To improve catalytic efficiency in energy-transfer-mediated [2+2] cycloadditions of styrenes with a range of olefins, including electron-deficient alkenes, heterogenization of reactive copper(I) species in photoexcited states is necessary.
The MOF-supported copper photocatalyst has superior stability and catalytic activity compared to the corresponding homogeneous copper photocatalysts. It can also be recycled numerous times without catalyst degradation.
This study offers a generic and multidisciplinary method for creating highly reactive copper photocatalysts for a variety of realistic organic processes, and it could contribute to future improvements in the ease and productivity of producing a wide range of bioactive chemicals.
Guo, J., et al, (2024) Visible light-mediated intermolecular crossed [2+2] cycloadditions using a MOF-supported copper triplet photosensitizer. Nature Catalysis. doi.org/10.1038/s41929-024-01112-9
Source: https://www.hku.hk/
Do you have a review, update or anything you would like to add to this news story?
In this interview, Lena Woodis of Thermo Fisher Scientific discusses solutions by which to accelerate battery research and development.
In this interview, LECO Corporation speaks to Petr Vozka about the importance of good quality equipment in complex chemical composition analysis, and the day-to-day life of his lab.
In this interview, AZoMaterials speaks with Knauer about project management capabilities in OEM, customization abilities, as well as what makes Knauer OEM solutions unique.
The AvaSpec-NEXOS™ is a powerful new photonics spectrometer designed by Avantes to be compatible in a wide range of applications.
Discover Process Insights' T-I Max AIRTM, a highly precise analyzer for greenhouse gas monitoring.
Discover Rigaku's CQL Narc-ID Handheld 1064 - a powerful Raman analyzer for narcotics, precursor chemicals, and cutting agents.
The global semiconductor market has entered an exciting period. Demand for chip technology is both driving the industry as well as hindering it, with current chip shortages predicted to last for some time. Current trends will likely shape the future of the industry, which is set to continue to show
The primary distinction between graphene-based batteries and solid-state batteries lies in the composition of either electrode. Although the cathode is commonly changed, carbon allotropes can also be employed in fabricating anodes.
In recent years, the IoT is rapidly being introduced into almost all sectors, but it has particular importance in the EV industry.
Your AI Assistant finding answers from trusted AZoM content
Your AI Powered Scientific Assistant
Hi, I'm Azthena, you can trust me to find commercial scientific answers from AZoNetwork.com.
A few things you need to know before we start. Please read and accept to continue.
Azthena may occasionally provide inaccurate responses. Read the full terms.
While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.
Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.
Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.
Read the full Terms & Conditions.
AZoM.com - An AZoNetwork Site
Acetone Formula Owned and operated by AZoNetwork, © 2000-2024