Research

Our research is based on the concept of “molecular catalysts”, and aims to develop new and efficient reactions for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, organic functional materials, and polymeric materials. The overall goal of the research carried out within the group is best described as highly “atom-economical processes” towards a sustainable society.

Catalytic transformations utilizing renewable resources :

To use strong chemical bonds for organic synthesis, we focus on highly reactive transition metal complexes that activate less reactive bonds, efficiently. A target of our research is to design and develop novel homogeneous organometallic catalysts that is capable of utilizing renewable resources such as carbon dioxide and biomass.

Development of catalysts for polymer synthesis and degradation :

Our research focuses on the development of new catalytic systems that can produce a range of functional polymers, including the coordination copolymerization of polar monomers such as methyl acrylate and vinyl acetate, and the copolymerization carbon dioxide with epoxides or dienes. We are also developing catalysts for chemical recycling of plastics.

Synthesis of beautiful molecules with novel functions :

By using organic synthetic methos, we synthesize “beautiful molecules” with precisely controlled electronic states that exhibit unprecedented functions.

Development of structurally and mechanistically well-defined heterogeneous catalysts :

We are aiming at the creation of structurally and mechanistically well-defined heterogeneous catalysts, which possess advantages of both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts, to develop highly challenging organic reactions.

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