Metal-organic frameworks as kinetic modulators for branched selectivity in hydroformylation.

Finding heterogeneous catalysts that are superior to homogeneous ones for selective catalytic transformations is a major challenge in catalysis. Here, we show how micropores in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) push homogeneous catalytic reactions into kinetic regimes inaccessible under standard conditions. Such property allows branched selectivity up to 90% in the Co-catalysed hydroformylation of olefins without directing groups, not achievable with existing catalysts. This finding has a big potential in the production of aldehydes for the fine chemical industry. Monte Carlo and density functional theory simulations combined with kinetic models show that the micropores of MOFs with UMCM-1 and MOF-74 topologies increase the olefins density beyond neat conditions while partially preventing the adsorption of syngas leading to high branched selectivity. The easy experimental protocol and the chemical and structural flexibility of MOFs will attract the interest of the fine chemical industries towards the design of heterogeneous processes with exceptional selectivity

Refining plant oils and sugars to platform chemicals, monomers, and polymers

This review examines whether plant oils and sugars can provide sustainable solutions to the chemical and plastic industry. A comprehensive account of conversion of plant oils and sugar into chemicals, monomers, and (co)polymers is presented.</p

Self-assembly of P-chiral supramolecular phosphines on rhodium and direct evidence for Rh-catalyst-substrate interactions

The self-assembly of p-chiral supramolecular phosphines on a rhodium metal has been established and direct evidence to demonstrate the existence of hydrogen bonding between the supramolecular catalyst and the substrate has been presented.</p