Objective In this project we propose to develop new methodologies to prepare and screen large libraries of homogeneous catalysts based on supramolecular (self-assembled) ligands using droplet-based microfluidics. Presently, the discovery and design of efficient homogeneous catalysts still relies on time intensive trial-and-error methodology. To overcome these limitations, a new paradigm shift for the discovery of effective ligands relies on the supramolecular self-assembly of libraries of ligand through reversible non-covalent interactions. This significantly increases the potential chemical space within which an optimal ligand set can be found. The full potential of this methodology is impeded by current synthesis and screening techniques which rely on macroscale (mL) trial for all the ligands sets and reaction conditions. One effective strategy to increase the rate at which reactions can be performed at is through extensive miniaturization of the reaction vessel. Recent advances in droplet-based microfluidics have enabled the effective screening of reaction conditions on a nano- to pico- liter scale. We thus propose to develop, in collaboration with a lab-on-a-chip research group, a modular droplet-based microfluidic device which will enable the generation, within a nanoliter droplet, of supramolecular catalyst made up of self-assembled ligands around a transition metal. These catalytic droplets will then be merged with a stream of reactants to form a nanoliter-size reaction size vessel which will enable the catalytic activity of the self-assembled catalyst to be evaluated. The intended outcome of this project is to greatly accelerate the speed at which an active catalyst can be identified at. This will have a broad impact on the chemical community for which screening methodologies have become an integral part of the discovery process (e.g. drug discovery). Fields of science medical and health sciencesbasic medicinepharmacology and pharmacydrug discoverynatural sciencesphysical sciencesclassical mechanicsfluid mechanicsmicrofluidicsengineering and technologyother engineering and technologiesmicrotechnologylab on a chipnatural scienceschemical sciencescatalysis Keywords Chemical engineering Combinatorial chemistry Homogeneous catalysis Microfluidics Organometallic chemistry supramolecular catalysis Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) PEOPLE-2007-2-1.IEF - Marie Curie Action: "Intra-European Fellowships for Career Development" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2007-2-1-IEF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF) Coordinator UNIVERSITEIT VAN AMSTERDAM Address Spui 21 1012WX Amsterdam Netherlands See on map Region West-Nederland Noord-Holland Groot-Amsterdam Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Administrative Contact Jo Lansbergen (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window EU contribution € 157 733,20
