B09 – MOF-Assisted Alkane Formylation

MOF-Assisted Alkane Formylation: Aldehyde Production from Basic Feed-stock via C–H activation

We will generate aldehydes directly from alkanes and CO. We propose that Rh(II) porphyrin metalloradicals confined within a MOF matrix can pre-organize CO and alkanes for a multi-component transition state that leads to a formal insertion of CO into a C-H bond. Irradiation with a 400 nm LED light will provide the necessary energy input to promote the slightly endergonic transformation. By examining different MOF hosts, we will identify the optimal distance between Rh(II) centers for the assembly of a transition state involving both CO and the alkane C-H bond.