A general bismuth-based platform for the catalytic construction of carbon–nitrogen bonds and beyond.

Información del proyecto

ClaN-Bi

Identificador del acuerdo de subvención: 101105383

DOI

10.3030/101105383

Proyecto cerrado

Fecha de la firma de la CE 21 Marzo 2023

Fecha de inicio 1 Mayo 2023

Fecha de finalización 30 Abril 2025

Financiado con arreglo a

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Coste total

Sin datos

Aportación de la UE

€ 173 847,36

Coordinado por

MAX PLANCK INSTITUT FUER KOHLENFORSCHUNG
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ClaN-Bi (A general bismuth-based platform for the catalytic construction of carbon–nitrogen bonds and beyond.)

Período documentado: 2023-05-01 hasta 2025-04-30

Resumen del contexto y de los objetivos generales del proyecto

The creation of carbon-nitrogen (C-N) and carbon-carbon (C-C) bonds is a cornerstone of modern chemistry, enabling the synthesis of complex molecules used in medicines, agriculture, and materials. Top-selling drugs rely on C-N bonds to achieve their function, yet traditional methods to form these bonds use expensive and toxic metals like palladium, posing environmental and cost challenges. The ClaN-Bi project aimed to transform this landscape by harnessing bismuth, a non-toxic, as a sustainable catalyst for these critical reactions. Recent discoveries have shown that bismuth can mimic transition metals by cycling through different chemical states (Bi(I) to Bi(III) or Bi(III) to Bi(V)) and generate reactive radicals, offering new pathways for chemical synthesis. Within this project, we pursued two key objectives: 1) Develop new bismuth-based chemical processes, focusing on radical-generating steps and transition metal-like reactions to form C-N and C-C bonds; 2) Establish catalytic cycles using low-valent bismuth to create these bonds efficiently, providing a greener and cheaper alternative to conventional methods. By integrating radical and polar mechanisms, often aided by light-driven (photochemical) steps, the project sought to unlock bismuth’s untapped potential in catalysis.

Over the course of this action, we have demonstrated bismuth’s potential to catalyze innovative reactions, inspiring new research directions in chemistry. These advancements could lower production costs for medicines and agrochemicals, making them more accessible.

Trabajo realizado desde el comienzo del proyecto hasta el final del período abarcado por el informe y los principales resultados hasta la fecha

Within this project, we synthesized and studied new bismuth compounds to develop catalytic processes for forming C-N and C-C bonds. Using advanced analytical techniques, we explored how bismuth complexes generate carbon-centered radicals and cycle through redox states (Bi(I) to Bi(III)). A novel radical generation strategy enabled two major achievements in C-C bond formation: first, a bismuth-catalyzed method to add trifluoromethyl groups to molecules, a critical step in drug discovery; second, a bismuth-catalyzed process to form cyclopropane rings, essential building blocks for pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The knowledge gathered during the action is instrumental in promoting C-N and C-Het bond formation.

Avances que van más allá del estado de la técnica e impacto potencial esperado (incluida la repercusión socioeconómica y las implicaciones sociales más amplias del proyecto hasta la fecha)

The findings of this action open new avenues for main group elements in catalysis, challenging the reliance on traditional metals. To ensure further uptake, additional research is needed to optimize C-N bond formation and explore industrial applications. Support for commercialization, such as partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, intellectual property protection, and regulatory frameworks for bismuth-based catalysts, will be crucial. The project’s results, shared openly, lay a foundation for future innovations in green chemistry, with potential to impact global chemical production.

Bi-redox photocatalysis for organic synthesis