High-density monolayers of metal complexes: preparation and catalysis.

Catalysts are one of the key materials for realizing a sustainable society. However, we may encounter problematic cases where conventional catalyst systems cannot provide effective solutions. We thus believe that the establishment of novel methods of catalyst preparation is currently necessary. Utilization of high-density monolayers of molecular metal complexes is our strategy, and we expect that this methodology will enable facile and systematic screening of unique and efficient catalysts. This Personal Account describes our challenges to establish such an immature method in catalyst preparation as well as the related background and perspective. Preparation and catalysis by high-density monolayers of Rh complexes with N-heterocyclic carbene, structurally compact phosphine and diisocyanide ligands on gold surfaces are presented. The catalytic application of a high-density Pd-bisoxazoline complex prepared on a single-crystal silicon surface is also shown. Uniquely high catalyst turnover numbers and high chemoselectivities were observed with these catalyst systems.