Research
At Roithová group, we aim to improve understanding of catalytic transformations by designing and studying novel catalysts. Our current projects consist of organometallic chemistry; unveiling the reactive intermediates in photocatalytic and electrocatalytic transformations and the determination of secondary coordination sphere effects on small molecule activation. In our work, we aim to identify and isolate key reactive intermediates and learn how to manipulate them. The obtained knowledge will provide us a way forward for smart catalyst design.
- Bettering nature’s approach - optimizing catalysts from the single molecule perspective - Vici 2019 (NWO Grant, 2020 - 2025)
- Reaction intermediates and mechanisms in photocatalysis and electrocatalysis - START-UP 2018 (NWO Grant, 2019 - 2024)
- Mass Spectrometry of Isomeric Ions (IsoMS) - ERC Consolidator Grant (2016 - 2020)
- Ion Spectroscopy of Reaction Intermediates (ISORI) - ERC Starting Grant (2011 - 2016)
Equiment
Ion spectroscopy
ISORI 1
We are using photodissociation spectroscopy to record UV, Vis, and IR spectra of mass selected ions. This serves for characterization of reactive species that cannot be characterized by other methods (NMR, X-ray), because their half time is short and thus their concentration is low. Mass spectrometry detection is extremely sensitive and combination with ion spectroscopy permits characterization of such species. For the method description see: Acc. Chem. Res. 2016, 49, 223.
Mass spectrometry
The group develops and uses methods in mass spectrometry to investigate
Electrochemistry
Synthesis
We have all standard equipment for chemical synthesis. We are interested in reaction mechanisms. Our studies often require systematic ligand modifications for metal catalysts. We also often employ isotopic labelling. Figure below shows synthesis of 18O-labelled H2O2.