Electrocatalyzed Olefin Carboxylation : toward the synthesis of carboxylic acids from CO2

Carboxylic acids are versatile reagents used in various industries, such as textiles, polymers, and paints.
They are however mostly produced through alkane oxidation: for example, adipic acid, precursor for nylon, is produced from cyclohexane. Developing new production methods using renewable resources like carbon dioxide is crucial, and would enable the greener synthesis of valuable platform molecules traditionally derived from petrochemicals.

Coupling of CO2 with alkenes leads to the formation of metalalactone species and stoichiometric amounts of bases or reducing metals are required to afford the carboxylic acids. In this project, we wish to develop new methods that rely on electrosynthesis to make such processes more sustainable.

The recruited postdoctoral fellow will work on new strategies involving electrochemical processes for the carboxylation of olefins. First, methodologies will be discovered and designed. They will then be applied to the synthesis of industrially relevant carboxylic acids such as acrylic or adipic acid. The work will involve preparing molecular metallic complexes (if necessary under inert atmosphere), running electrocatalytic tests, and conducting mechanistic studies.

Applicant profile :

The applicant must hold a PhD in molecular chemistry with an experience in catalysis and/or electrochemistry.

Application process :

To apply, please contact:
https://iramis.cea.fr/en/nimbe/lcmce/
Dr. Alexis Mifleur, alexis.mifleur@cea.fr

In line with CEA's commitment to the integration of disabled people, this job is open to all. The CEA offers accommodations and/or organizational possibilities for the inclusion of disabled workers.