This class will discuss advanced concepts in organometallic, bio-inorganic and coordination chemistry, in the context of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis as well as enzymatic processes. The class will thus cover a broad range of catalytic transformations focusing on the sustainable and efficient use of feedstock molecules, exploring the parallel between industrial and biological systems.
Learning objective
Gain knowledge of catalytic transformations, relevant to processes found in industry and in Nature. Development of an extended molecular understanding of organometallic, bio-inorganic and coordination chemistry in relation to catalytic transformations.
Content
Specific focus will be given to key reactions such as alkane functionalization and homologation, olefin metathesis and polymerization, oxidation, processes related to conversion of C1 molecules (CH4 and CO2), CO/H2 to hydrocarbons (Fischer-Tropsch) and N2/H2 to ammonia (Haber-Bosch) as well as the corresponding enzymatic counterparts. The fundamental underlying principle of the associated elementary steps and reaction mechanisms involved in these processes, that include C-H activation, O/N-atom transfer reactions, N-N, C-O and C-C bond cleavage and formation will be discussed in details exploiting Molecular Orbital theory and spectroscopy.
Lecture notes
A script is provided on Ilias. It is expected that the students will consult the accompanying literature.
Literature
Books
1) R. Crabtree: the Organometallic Chemistry of Transition Metals – Wiley, 5th Edition
2) TA Albright, JB Burdett, MH Whangbo: Orbital Interactions in Chemistry – Wiley Interscience
3) Y. Jean: Molecular Orbitals of Transition Metal complexes – Oxford University Press
Performance assessment as a semester course