Computational screening of metalloporphyrin catalysts for the activation of carbon dioxide
Nature’s Blueprint for a Sustainable Future: Unlocking the Power of Metalloporphyrins for CO₂Conversion
Metalloporphyrins, nature’s remarkable molecular machines, are found in everything from the chlorophyll in plants that powers photosynthesis to the haemoglobin in our blood that carries oxygen. These versatile molecules also hold immense potential for addressing the global challenge of rising CO₂ levels.
This research, a collaboration between TYC scientists at Queen Mary, University of London, and University College London, delves into the exciting world of metalloporphyrins and their ability to convert CO₂ into valuable products. Using advanced computer simulations, we investigated how 110 different metalloporphyrins interact with CO₂.
Our findings reveal the intricate interplay between the metal center, surrounding ligands, and oxidation state of M-PORs in governing their ability to capture and activate CO₂. This detailed understanding of structure-activity relationships provides a roadmap for designing more efficient M-POR catalysts for CO₂ conversion, paving the way for sustainable technologies that can transform our future.
Authors: Amira Tasnima Uddin, Qi Zhao, Dimitrios Toroz, Rachel Crespo-Otero, Devis Di Tommaso