r_syn

Modified MOF catalysts: CO2 to value-added products

Research highlight / By

This research focuses on the design and modification of high surface area, porous materials known as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The objective is to utilize these materials as catalysts to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into high-value cyclic carbonates, which are crucial for the polymer and battery industries. MOFs typically suffer from diffusion limitations because their pores …

Modified MOF catalysts: CO2 to value-added products Read More »

Mechanistic study on the conversion of primary alcohols and butadiene into branched ketones using a rhodium catalyst

Research highlight / By

This work investigates the mechanism of a Rh(I)-catalyzed transformation of primary alcohols and butadiene into saturated branched ketones, without premetalated intermediates or external hydrogen sources. DFT calculations reveal a four-step pathway involving alcohol oxidation, butadiene hydrogenation, carbonyl addition, and intramolecular hydrogen transfer. The rate-determining step is the sterically hindered carbonyl addition, which also explains why …

Mechanistic study on the conversion of primary alcohols and butadiene into branched ketones using a rhodium catalyst Read More »

Enzymatic Catalysis for a Novel Green Synthesis Method

Research highlight / By

Professor Dr. Sumrit Wacharasindhu developed a green synthesis method using enzymatic catalysis. We didn’t reinvent the wheel — but we did make it greener . Enzymatic reactions in water  are promising, but solubility often holds them back especially for organic compounds like α-oxo ketene dithioacetals . So we switched from “on-water” to “in-water” using a biodegradable surfactant, TPGS-750-M . …

Enzymatic Catalysis for a Novel Green Synthesis Method Read More »

Molecularly Dispersed Nickel Complexes on N-doped Graphene for Electrochemical CO2 reduction

Research highlight / By

The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes are releasing increasing amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, leading to serious environmental problems such as global warming. Electrochemical CO2 conversion has emerged as a promising strategy for harnessing CO2 as a chemical feedstock to synthesize value-added chemicals (e.g., carbon monoxide, formic acid, methanol, …

Molecularly Dispersed Nickel Complexes on N-doped Graphene for Electrochemical CO2 reduction Read More »

A novel environmentally friendly catalyst

Research highlight / By

The research group of Assistant Professor Dr. Panuwat Padungros introduces a new eco-friendly catalyst, N,N-didodecylammonium N,N-didodecyldithiocarbamate (AmDTC-C12C12), which self-assembles in water to form vesicles that promote chemical reactions. This system allows the synthesis of valuable compounds like 4H-chromenes and γ-nitro ketones in water, avoiding harmful organic solvents. Read More Ayodele J. Atibioke Panassilp Authai Tirayut …

A novel environmentally friendly catalyst Read More »