Magnetically induced catalysis: A New Approach for the Valorization of Esters and Polyesters

A breakthrough in sustainable catalysis from Dr. Alexis Bordet’s team enables efficient hydrodeoxygenation of esters and polyesters to valuable chemicals under mild conditions

Background and Research Question

The selective hydrodeoxygenation of benzylic esters to aromatic compounds such as tolyl derivatives is attractive for the synthesis of fine chemicals (e.g. dyes, pigments, etc.) and pharmaceuticals (e.g. analgesics, antihistamines, etc.), and has the potential to valorize bio-based intermediates and waste polyesters (e.g. PET) into the chemical value chain. Efficient catalytic approaches using hydrogen gas (H2) are highly desired for this transformation, but missing.

Results and Highlights

Now, a team of researchers led by Dr. Alexis Bordet at the MPI-CEC - within the Department of Molecular Catalysis headed by Prof. Walter Leitner - have developed an efficient catalytic approach using magnetically induced catalysis and earth-abundant iron in the form of iron carbide nanoparticles. When exposed to an alternating magnetic field, these nanoparticles generate localized heat precisely where it is needed, enabling the hydrodeoxygenation of a wide variety of esters at low H2 pressures and low temperatures, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. Most interestingly, this innovative approach was successfully applied to a range of synthetic targets and to the selective depolymerization of real polyester (PET coffee cup) into p-xylene.

The magnetically-activated catalytic system also showed robustness and resilience under variable electricity supply, suggesting it could be powered by intermittent renewable energy sources like solar or wind power - further enhancing its sustainability.

As outlined by Sihana Ahmedi – first author of the paper and PhD student in the group of Alexis Bordet at the MPI CEC – the results of this study have significant implications for practical ester and polyester hydrodeoxygenation with magnetically-activated earth-abundant Fe-based catalysts using renewable H2 at the laboratory and production scales. In addition, the observed chemical and process benefits are of significant general interest further encouraging the exploration of the emerging field of magnetically induced catalysis in research and industry.

Future Perspectives

The researchers are excited to continue exploring the potential of magnetically induced catalysis as a driver for electrification and innovation in the chemical industry.

Original Paper: https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.5c10464

For further information on adaptive catalytic systems and magnetically induced catalysis:

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