Scientific Sessions

Catalysis plays a pivotal role in organic chemistry by accelerating reaction rates and improving selectivity, which is essential for developing efficient and sustainable synthetic methodologies. Both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts are widely employed to facilitate a variety of transformations, including hydrogenation, oxidation, cross-coupling, and carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatom bond formations. Transition metal catalysts such as palladium, nickel, and ruthenium are frequently used in reactions like Suzuki, Heck, and Sonogashira couplings, enabling the construction of complex organic molecules under milder conditions. Organocatalysis has also gained significant attention due to its metal-free nature, offering greener alternatives for asymmetric synthesis. The development of novel catalytic systems contributes not only to academic research but also to industrial processes, improving yields, reducing waste, and lowering energy demands.

In polymer chemistry, catalysis is integral to the design and synthesis of macromolecules with specific structures and properties. Catalytic polymerization techniques such as ring-opening polymerization (ROP), coordination-insertion polymerization, and reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) allow precise control over molecular weight, architecture, and functionality. For instance, Ziegler–Natta and metallocene catalysts revolutionized the production of polyolefins with controlled tacticity. Recent advances focus on sustainable catalysis, including the use of bio-based monomers and recyclable catalysts, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. Catalytic systems are also being engineered to enable stimuli-responsive polymer synthesis, opening new frontiers in smart materials and biomedical applications. Overall, catalysis remains a cornerstone of innovation in organic and polymer chemistry, offering new pathways to synthesize complex molecules and advanced materials with greater efficiency and environmental responsibility.