SBIR PHASE I: Heterogenized Homogeneous Catalysts based on Polymer-Supported N-Heterocyclic Carbenes

Argonaut Technologies, San Carlos CA

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will research technical and commercial feasibility of heterogenized homogeneous (supported) palladium N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysts. Homogeneous palladium-catalyzed reactions are powerful methods for carbon-carbon and carbon-hetero atom bond formations, such as Heck and Suzuki reactions. However, their commercial adoption in fine chemical manufacture has been burdened by the inefficiencies associated with homogeneous catalysts, primarily recovery and recycling, which could be eliminated by the development of supported catalysts. Successful research and development would result in commercial products that would simplify post-reaction processing, reduced waste streams and reduction in costs via recycling.