Design and synthesis of transition metal complexes for application in homogeneous catalysis and bio-inorganic (eg: Ag, Rh, Fe, Ru). Experties in homogeneous catalysis: hydroformilation, hydrosylilation, olefin methatesis, hydrogenation, de-hydrogenation, water oxidation, hydrogen evolution.
Ruthenium and iron based homogeneous catalysts containing non-innocent ligands such as N-heterocyclic carbenes and/or cyclopentadienones have been recently emplioyed for the development of novel processes for energetic transition and following the concept of circular economy.
Some example are summarized in the following:
- bio-oil valorization toward the selective hydrogenation of double bonds by means of ruthenium based cyclopentadienone complexes;
- valorization of biomass derived building blocks (e.g. HMF) toward the porduction of valuable renewable products by means of ruthenium and iron based cyclopentadienone complexes;
- valorization of waste products (e.g. bio-ethanol) for the production of bio-fuels by means of ruthenium complexes bearing N-heterocyclic carbene and/or cyclopentadienone complexes;
- electrocatlysed water oxidation by iron complexes (earth abundant and bio-friendly) bearing N-heterocyclic carbene and/or cyclopentadienone ligands;
- electrocatalyzed hydrogen evolution with dinuclear complexes bearing bridging C3 ligands.
