When it comes to improving important catalytic systems, a great deal of attention has been focused on the kinetic barriers of chemical transformations. Since essentially all modern catalysis is based on multiple steps, the relative free energies of intermediates (i.e. the reaction thermodynamics) plays a major role in how catalysts function. Recent efforts have focused on controlling the entire free energy landscape as best as possible, particularly in ways that avoid scaling relationships and coupling between different reaction steps. In this talk, efforts to utilize multifunctional ligand frameworks and secondary coordination sphere interactions to develop new designs for next-generation homogeneous catalyst systems will be discussed. A particular focus of the work will relate to the thermodynamics of electrophilic C-H bond activation, but vingettes regarding C-X bond activation and the importance of alkali metal interactions will also be discussed.

To tether or not to tether: Frustration of electrophilic transition metal systems

2019 Fall National Meeting

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