Urushiol Synthesis Based on Iron-Catalyzed Cross-Couplings

In this project the compound urushiol will be synthesized using catalysts containing the earth abundant metal iron through the use of chemical processes known as cross-coupling reactions. Urushiol is the natural compound responsible for Asian lacquer used for coatings and adhesives on wood or metal products, however obtaining it naturally currently is an expensive and time consuming process requiring specialized labour for proper extraction. While we currently have modern equivalents, their ability to withstand the test of time and overall resistant quality is lacking compared to the original urushiol-based lacquers. Therefore, synthesizing urushiol in a cheap, energy and time efficient manner would benefit both industry and society as it will allow further use of this more advantageous lacquer compound and further studying of the compound so that it may be eventually derived naturally once again but in a cheap and efficient manner. We expect urushiol can be synthesized by using iron-catalyzed cross-coupling based on both Dr. Nakamura’s and Dr. Kozak’s related previous works using this process and iron catalysts to form similar compounds.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christopher Kozak

Student:

Partner:

Kyoto University

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Program: