Catalytic Applications of Heterogeneous Systems Based on Cyclodextrins

J. D.      Senra; L. F. B.      Malta; L. C. S.      Aguiar; A. B. C.      Simas; O. A. C.      Antunes

doi:10.2174/138527210791616939

Abstract

Cyclodextrins provide unique opportunities to catalytic applications. The integration of these supramolecular structures and heterogeneous catalysis exhibits potential to fulfill the high demands to the development of sustainable chemical processes. Herein, we have summarized some properties of this important class of catalysts. Selected synthetic applications are discussed. We dedicate this manuscript to the memory of Professor Octavio Augusto Ceva Antunes (1952-2009), a leading figure in the catalysis field in Brazil and a masterful teacher and mentor in the chemical sciences. The development of accessible and efficient green catalysts for as many different applications as organic synthesis, biofuels and nutraceutics, was a major theme of his research. His energy and impressive knowledge was always punctuated with humor and wit, the reason why many students, researchers and colleagues were drawn towards him during his life. Octavio Antunes was much more than a scientist. He enjoyed literature, philosophy, languages and culinary and was deeply concerned with his contribution as scientist to social development. He was thus dedicated to increasing the access to antiviral drugs in Brazil. To those who knew him, he was a genuine scientist-humanist. His untimely and tragic loss deeply affected his colleagues and students but the human and scientific legacies he left through an intense and productive life will remain.

Keywords: Heterogeneous catalysts, aqueous medium, cyclodextrins, oxidation, hydrogenation, sulfoxidation, cross-coupling reactions, hydrodehalogenation