Tong Zhang predoc researcher FWO

Research Tong Zhang

Research team

Design of novel photocatalytic systems for the conversion of biomass into formic acids. 01/11/2020 - 31/10/2024

Abstract

Formic acid (FA) is well-known as a promising hydrogen source as well as a valuable chemical for the industries of textiles, pharmaceuticals etc. In fact, 1.137 million metric tons of FA is required per year over the entire world to meet the current demand. Therefore, there is a strong interest for the generation of FA in a sustainable way to meet the future demand. Inspired by this information, we propose a solar energy mediated method to generate FA from the biomass. This method involves the development of photocatalyst that utilise atmospheric oxygen as an oxidant for the valorisation of sugars, cellulose, hemicellulose etc. components. Initial focus will be on the design of homogeneous photocatalysts which are more selective than the heterogeneous one. Later, homogeneous catalysts will be transformed into heterogeneous one by using solid support onto it or synthesizing them separately. Finally, mechanistic studies such as DFT calculations, EPR studies, and in situ spectroscopic experiments will be conducted to understand the reaction mechanism.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Design of N-Heterocyclic Carbenes as Catalyst for the Selective Fixation of CO2 onto Organic Molecules. 01/01/2020 - 31/12/2023

Abstract

Transformations of CO2 into carboxylic acids are ideal reactions due to the widespread application of carboxylic acid compounds in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. In general, direct C-H bond or C-X (X= halides) functionalization would allow 'unfunctionalized' molecules to be converted into synthetic intermediates and perhaps more importantly, an existing functionality could be exploited or suppressed selectively, during the assembly of molecular complexity. The approach could also allow complex molecules, especially pharmaceuticals, to be prepared in fewer steps. This proposal is concerned with N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) catalysed C–H/ C-X bond functionalization of organic molecules followed by the insertion of CO2 to afford carboxylic acids. I intend to develop general site-selective strategy that takes place under mild conditions. The catalysts developed will be used to functionalize a range of organic motifs including 'functionally challenging' molecules found in natural products and complex pharmaceutical agents.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project