Dr. S. Khan's Research Group

Research Interests:

Primary goal of our research is to synthesize novel compounds with main group elements in low-oxidation state and explore them to develop some metal free catalysts as well as stabilize reactive intermediates. In addition, we are also interested to utilize them as ancillary ligands in catalytic reactions in combination with transition metals.

1. Silylene as a ligand in transition metal chemistry

Silylenes have shown their potential as sigma donor ligands like its heavier congener, N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs). However, unlike NHCs, use of silylene as a ligand in transition metal chemistry is very limited. We are interested to use Si(II) compounds as a ligand to stabilize novel transition metal complexes especially coinage metal complexes (Cu, Ag, Au) and utilize them as catalysts in various organic transformations.

We are also exploring the metallophilic interactions (Au···Au) supported by Si(II) ligands. Since metallophilic interactions lead to interesting photophysical properties, we are looking at the variation of Si(II) ligands to tune the emission properties of such complexes.

2. Low-valent main group compounds in catalysis

The recent developments of low-valent main group catalysts as replacement for the more expensive toxic transition metal catalysts are mainly due to the increasing demand for facile activation of catalytically relevant small molecules like H2, NH3, Alkenes, Carbonyls etc. in a cheaper and less toxic eco-friendly manner. We are also exploring the potential of Tetrelylenes as catalysts in organic transformations. We used germylene and stannylene as catalysts for hydroboration and cyanosilylation reactions. We are investigating Tetrelylenes as catalysts for other catalytic transformations too.

3. PNP and PNB ligands: synthesis and application

Recently we have synthesized a series of PNP- and PNB-based ligands and utilized them to study the photophysical as well as catalytic properties of transition metals. We are exploring their potential applications in several fields.

4. Synthesis of compounds with group 14 elements in their low oxidation state

The study of compounds with low-valent main group elements or transition metals is an exciting research field in the area of inorganic/organometallic chemistry. These compounds are not only challenging targets, but are also expected to show unforeseen chemistry. Recent years have witnessed N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHC) to stabilize multiply bound main group compounds such as B≡B, Si=Si etc. which are otherwise inaccessible. Our interest is in the synthesis of low valent silicon compounds, mainly silylene and use them as a ligand to stabilize low-valent compounds with main group or transition metals.