Organic Chemistry Seminar

This presentation will focus on our group's developments and use of catalysts for the synthesis of small molecules and polymers. In the first story, I will highlight the development of organic photoredox catalysts activated by visible light and their application in organocatalyzed atom transfer radical polymerization (O-ATRP) and the evolution to super reducing photoredox catalysts for PFAS remediation and arene reductions. The second story will focus on a new approach to creating chemically recyclable polyolefin-like multiblock polymers with diverse mechanical properties, enabling closed-loop recycling through efficient deconstruction and repolymerization of hard and soft oligomeric building blocks. Together, these stories illustrate the transformative potential of catalysis in creating innovative solutions towar more sustainable chemicals and materials.