Hydrogenolysis Reactions
We are studying the fundamental surface chemistry associated with C-X bond hydrogenolysis reactions, catalyzed by metal and bifunctional metal/metal-oxide catalysts. In one project, we are seeking to elucidate the mechanism by which C-Cl bonds are cleaved in aromatic systems using monometallic catalysts and drawing comparisons to classical mechanisms for C-C hydrogenolysis. In another project, we are studying the cleavage of C-O bonds in aromatic systems using bifunctional metal/metal-oxide catalysts, developing the role of the metal oxide support and identifying solvent effects on these reactions.
Carbon-Carbon Bond Forming Reactions
We are evaluating strategies for coupling small, biologically-derived platform molecules to yield high-value chemicals. In one project, we have been studying the Lebedev reaction for coupling ethanol to yield biobased butadiene, using a model MgO-SiO2 catalyst to elucidate the factors that drive selectivity for dehydrogenation over dehydration in the first step in this reaction. In another project, we are using bifunctional metal/mixed-oxide catalysts to identify the conditions where short-chain carboxylic acids can be coupled to yield oligomers suitable for use as synthetic lubricants.
Esterification and Etherification
In one project, we are evaluating the effect of solvation on the kinetics of Fischer esterification using solid acid catalysts. In another project, we have developed a method for selectively functionalizing 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), which is a common biomass-derived platform chemical. These functionalized HMF molecules are useful as precursors to biobased thermoplstic polymers, which is the subject of ongoing work in our group.