Characterization of Iron RPy2N2 Azamacrocyclic Complexes as Carbon-Carbon Coupling Catalysts

Abstract

The goal of this project is to offer a more economic and environmentally friendly, alternative carbon-carbon coupling catalyst complex to what is used industrially today. Carbon-carbon coupling is a common reaction performed in the industrial production of organic materials through routes that use palladium and platinum catalysts. These metals, however, are both economically and environmentally costly to acquire. It has previously been demonstrated that iron-containing complexes can be used as an alternative to the precious metal complexes. For example, Brewer et al. demonstrated the carbon-carbon coupling ability of iron ^RPyN₃ complexes and characterized the mechanism. Based on these results, we have developed a ^RPy₂N₂ series and the iron congeners for C-C catalysis. We characterized the C-C reactivity to understand the relationship between the catalytic performance and the number of pyridine rings and pyridine substitution. 

Comments from Mentors

Jack is one of those rare intellects that can master chemistry at a high level, while also making it accessible to the general public. He can turn the most challenging content into an easy explanation. He is a favorite among his peers and faculty for his positive attitude and commitment to excellence. Jack has a servant's heart and has always been eager to contribute to research in my lab by helping his colleagues, outreach programs from our department, and worldwide efforts to improve healthcare and the epidemic of hunger. We are so happy he is one of our alumni and, personally, I am so grateful to have him as a part of my team.

— Kayla Green