Green Chemistry: Oxidation without oxygen – organic synthesis via dehydrogenation

Oxidation is one of the most fundamental and widely-used reactions in chemical, pharmaceutical and materials synthesis. An oxidant, such as metal peroxides, hydrogen peroxide or oxygen gas, is almost always used, which incurs considerable safety issues and in many cases generates copious wastes. Oxidation can be effected without an oxidant, however, by removing hydrogen via dehydrogenation (giving off H2). The problem is that there are few catalysts available that allow easy dehydrogenation. We have recently developed a range of metal complexes that show considerable activity in dehydrogenation reactions. This project aims to further develop the catalysis, targeting reactions of fundamental and commercial significance.

You will design, synthesise and study new metal complexes, focusing on their dehydrogenation chemistry. The project will make use of organometallic chemistry, organic synthesis and mechanistic studies, and involve interdisciplinary collaboration and collaboration with industry. If you are interested, have a sound background in organometallic or organic chemistry, and are hard-working, please contact Professor Xiao at [Email Address Removed] or 0151 7942937.