Our Mission - New Chemistry for a Sustainable Society
1. Advancing High-Performance Nanozymes through Metalloenzyme Catalytic Strategies
We are pioneering the development of nanozymes by leveraging the catalytic
strategies of metalloenzymes. Utilizing materials such as Metal-Organic
Frameworks (MOFs), gels, and graphene, our research explores their application
in antioxidant systems, aerobic oxidation catalysis, oxygen reduction reactions
(ORR), and water purification. This includes the creation of artificial
superoxide dismutase mimics to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS)
and the design of nanozymes (artificial laccase) that enhance phenol oxidation
via aerobic pathways.
Superoxide Disumtase Nanozyme
Laccase Nanozyme
2. Innovating New Photocatalytic Reactions
Our focus is on discovering new photocatalytic reactions that harness visible
light, especially through the use of titanium dioxide as a catalyst. These
reactions include carbon-carbon bond formation, epoxidation, hydrogen atom
transfer, and conversions of biomass such as lignin and cellulose. The
aim is to create sustainable solutions for chemical processes that were
traditionally energy-intensive, now driven by light.
Formation of Carbon-Carbon Bonds via Visible Light Irradiation Using Titanium
Dioxide as a Catalyst
Visible-light-induced carbon-carbon bond formation without the need for
a catalyst
3. Electrochemical Reaction Development
We are also developing novel electrochemical processes, including the in
situ generation of peracids for epoxidation reactions. By integrating photochemistry
and electrochemistry, we target sustainable biomass conversion, focusing
on materials like lignin and cellulose.
Electrochemical Epoxidation Using Water as the Sole Source of Oxygen Atoms
4. Merging Nature's Structured Materials with Chemical Innovation
Nature provides us with inspiring materials, such as wood, which features
remarkable anisotropy and hierarchical structures. By combining these natural
characteristics with chemical modifications, we aim to develop new materials
with enhanced properties, supporting sustainable applications.
Coming soon!
5. Understanding C-H Bond Cleavage
To further our understanding of selective C-H bond oxidation, we are exploring
machine learning, polarity effects, and descriptor development. Our goal
is to identify new catalysts capable of selective C-H activation, ultimately
paving the way for innovations in oxidation chemistry.
Robust Catalysts for Selective C-H Bond Oxidation