Structural differences in enantiopure and racemate organometallic complexes. Application to [(η5-C5Me5)RhCl(PN)]+n complexes

Abstract

The use of metal-based catalysts is one of the most powerful strategies for synthesizing enantioenriched compounds by asymmetric catalysis. Our lab is focused in the development and structural characterization of different types of coordination complexes, based on 2nd and 3rd row late transition metals, and in their potential application as homogeneous catalyst precursors, trying to establish a clear correspondence between specific structural parameters and chemical and catalytic activity. This approach usually relies on organometallic complexes where the metal atoms are stereogenic centers. The asymmetric environment around the metal, i.e., the catalyst pocket in which catalysis occurs, may control the achieved enantioselectivity. Therefore, the synthesis, isolation and the detailed structural characterization of enantiopure catalysts are primary goals in this research line.