Research Projects

The increasing use of fossil fuels and modernization has led to an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the environment. To address this, high-tech applications are needed to capture and convert carbon dioxide into energy-rich fuels. Enzymes in nature convert carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals through the C3 cycle, Kreb's cycle, and acetyl CoA pathway. Research has focused on developing synthetic catalysts for efficient carbon dioxide reduction, with heavy metals being used to avoid toxicity and high costs. Recent studies have emphasized the development of metallated complexes of porphyrins, particularly iron and manganese porphyrins, as homogeneous catalysts for efficient carbon dioxide reduction. The research project aims to develop environmentally benign organic cages that address global energy demand and alleviate the greenhouse effect of carbon dioxide. π extended substituents like Naphthalene diimides (NDIs) can enhance the catalytic activity of porphyrins. Highly conjugated groups with a large π plane control the catalytic activity of metallated porphyrin catalysts, providing hydrophobicity and allowing carbon dioxide molecules to accumulate near the redox center. NDI derivatives are synthesized using NTCDA, and the project aims to extend their applications through interaction with porphyrins and their derivatives. Porphyrins, being large structural elements, can stabilize highly π conjugated guest molecules inside the cavity. The metallated form of porphyrin contributes directly to the reactivity performed inside the structure. The synthesized covalent porphyrinic cages (CPCs) combine the unique photophysical, redox, and catalytic properties of porphyrins.