Light driven supramolecular reactors (ARC Discovery Project administered by the University of New South Wales) (2016-2018)
Abstract
A major problem facing synthetic chemistry is how to control chemical reactivity using benign techniques. The aim of this project is to form supramolecular capsules that can bind guest molecules and use visible light to drive chemical reactions inside these cages. This project is significant as it will develop the first examples of molecular cages that are capable of catalysing photoredox processes. These enantiopure, self-assembled cages will be based on ruthenium(II) complexes with established photophysical properties. The expected outcomes will include the first proof-of-principle examples of controlled photoredox reactions, opening the door for the development of enantioselective molecular photoreactors.
