Solvent Selection in Homogeneous Catalysis-Optimization of Kinetics and Reaction Performance

Solvents have an enormous impact on yield and turnover of chemical reactions in complex media. There is, however, a lack of consistent model-based tools to a priori identify the appropriate solvent for homogeneously catalyzed reactions. Here, a thermodynamically consistent approach for a reductive amination reaction is presented. It combines solvent screening using a thermodynamic-activity model and quantum chemical calculations. The optimization of activity coefficient-based predicted kinetics gives a suitable list of candidate solvents. The results were confirmed by batch experiments in selected solvents. This approach allows reducing time and lab resources for solvent selection to a minimum.

Automated summary

This method combines thermodynamic activity models and quantum chemical calculations to efficiently screen suitable solvents for homogeneous catalyzed reactions through optimizing predicted kinetics based on activity coefficients. It reduces time and lab resources for solvent selection to a minimum.