Objective Catalyst optimization is currently predominantly done by screening a large number of catalysts, rarely catalysts are designed by either chemical intuition or molecular modelling.In this proposal we will try to develop -by design- a new catalytic protocol using environmental benign reagents for the synthesis of cyclopropanes. The inspiration for this work stems from an interesting historical anomaly.In early work of Nobel prize laureate Georg Wittig cyclopropanation by the reaction of N-C-ylids as methylene donors with olefins was reported. Later these results were retracted. Possibly, traces of transition metals in one of the reagents were responsible for these inconsistent results. This observation prompts us to start an investigation of the interaction of N-C-ylids with transition metals.In this proposal we will combine (in)organic synthesis, mass spectrometry and molecular modelling to study the interaction of N-C-ylids with transition metals. Thorough understanding of these reactive intermediates will lead to novel synthetic (ideally catalytic) routes to cyclopropanes and the use of these intermediates in related synthetic transformations.Thus testing, validating and further developing our tools for design of catalysis and providing a environmentally benign industrial route to cyclopropanes. Fields of science natural scienceschemical sciencescatalysisnatural scienceschemical sciencesanalytical chemistrymass spectrometry 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) FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IEF - Marie-Curie Action: "Intra-European fellowships for career development" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IEF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF) Coordinator EIDGENOESSISCHE TECHNISCHE HOCHSCHULE ZUERICH EU contribution € 178 101,60 Address Raemistrasse 101 8092 Zuerich Switzerland See on map Region Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera Zürich Zürich Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Administrative Contact Peter Chen (Prof.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data
