Homogeneous aluminum and iron catalysts for the synthesis of organic molecules and biodegradable polymers

Abstract Metal-catalyzed processes play a key role in the current chemical industry since it allows the development of a broad range of chemical transformations, such as C─H activation or C─C and C─heteroatom bond forming reactions, for the synthesis of valuable organic products or innovative materials. Currently, the majority of metal-catalyzed reactions are based on late transition metals. Therefore the use of sustainable metal catalysts to replace low abundance and/or precious elements in metal-catalyzed transformations is highly desirable. In this book chapter, current state of the art examples in the use of abundant and inexpensive aluminum and iron compounds as catalysts for the synthesis of organic molecules via C─C and C─heteroatom bond forming reactions and biodegradable polymers via ring-opening polymerization and copolymerization reactions are reviewed. Aluminum- and iron-based complexes have experienced a huge increase in interest in metal catalysis in the last two decades and their use is expected to grow in the coming years.