Research group of Sustainable Organometallic Chemistry

Department

Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine

Main research activities/topics/projects

Traditional solution-based methods for synthesis of catalytic materials and for hydrogenation/oxidation reactions are affected by significant consumption of energy and generation of solvent waste. Developing cleaner synthetic and catalytic processes is needed and requires solvent-free and energy-efficient solutions. From this perspective, mechanochemistry may prove an effective approach for this type of reaction. Furthermore, solid-state mechanochemical reaction eliminates the need to find suitable solvents for the dissolution of reactants and other solubility-related issues, allowing the use of a broader range of precursors. This research project focuses on:
(a) developing innovative ruthenium-based catalysts for sustainable chemistry according to mechano-chemical procedures.
(b) developing innovative mechanocatalytic hydrogenation/oxidation reactions.
Therefore, this route appears simple and versatile, relatively fast and without the use of solvents and it is considered an ecofriendly method in ruthenium chemistry with promising commercial and industrial potential. Mechanochemistry is commonly associated with green chemistry due to its ability to reduce waste production in chemical synthesis and reactions. Several works demonstrate the potential of mechanochemistry as an alternative route that could reduce the costs and environmental footprint of fine chemical production. In summary, mechanochemistry can lead to a more efficient and less polluting process, both for the preparation of ruthenium complexes and for their application in mechanocatalytic processes.

Working language

English

Special entry requirements

Chemical lab experience

Duration in months (min-max)

Master Research:3-12

PhD sandwich: 3-12

Post Doc: 3-12