Research

   We investigate the reaction mechanism of transition metal complexes by using the 1) spectroscopy, 2) reaction kinetics, and 3) DFT computations on the 4) synthesized model complexes. Utilizing these techniques, the structure and reactivity of the compound can be understood. Via correlating the intermediate structure and the reactivity, we can establish the structure-reactivity relationship which leads to the development of catalyst design strategy.

   Many organometallic complexes involving metal-carbon bonds can be activated toward photo-excitations. These photochemical processes induce the important organometallic reactions including cross-coupling and olefin metathesis. Via revealing and understanding the mechanism of photo-induced reactions, we establish the catalyst design strategies showing greater catalytic activity. 

    The H- transfer reaction is a principal step in lots of chemistries including H₂ utilization, NADH regeneration, and CO₂ hydrogenation reactions. These reactions are often catalyzed by transition metal complexes. We understand the mechanism of H- transfer reactions by utilizing various spectroscopic and computational methods. Ultimately, we hope to find out the parameter controlling the reactivity of H- transfer reactions. 

    Hydrometalation reactions introduce H and MLn groups to the unsaturated organic molecules such as alkene and ketones. For example, organosilicon compounds, the product of alkene hydrosilylation reactions, is now industrially utilized in the synthesis of various organic molecules as well as the organosilicon polymers.  To develop the economic catalysts for the hydrometalation reactions, we understand the mechanism utilizing spectroscopic and computational tools.