Activation of Small Molecules: Organometallic and Bioinorganic Perspectives

The activation of small molecules, such as nitrogen, oxygen or hydrogen, has always been a major research topic in the field of bioinorganic chemistry. These energy sources may be used in many ways, such as for fueling biological systems and as synthons for the construction of more complex molecules. Moreover, they may serve as signaling agents in biological systems to trigger complex protein expression and regulation processes. Also the activation of molecular oxygen is still a challenge and would lead to atom-efficient and green oxidation processes.

This handbook provides highlights of recent research, with an emphasis on newly discovered fundamental chemistry involved in metal-mediated binding and activation of CO₂, CO, NO, N₂O, N₂, H₂, CH₄, H₂O, and O₂. By bringing together concise, yet detailed reviews by experts in these wide-ranging fields, it offers cross-disciplinary insights in one convenient volume. Importantly, by organizing each chapter by small molecule, organometallic and bioinorganic perspectives are often discussed together, in comparative fashion, thus bridging the two disciplines and generating new, unifying concepts.

Taken together, the chapters illustrate the diversity of metal systems used in the laboratory and by nature to capture and use small molecules. Challenges for the future are sprinkled throughout, making this a valuable resource for students and researchers.