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Toward Predicting Full Catalytic Cycle Using Automatic Reaction Path Search Method: A Case Study on
Satoshi Maeda1,2, Keiji Morokuma2,3
1The Hakubi Center, Kyoto University , Kyoto 606-8302, Japan.
A new automated method predicts complex chemical reaction pathways without initial guesses. This artificial force induced reaction (AFIR) approach systematically maps catalytic cycles, enabling nonempirical mechanism prediction.
Area of Science:
- Computational Chemistry
- Chemical Reaction Dynamics
Background:
- Predicting reaction pathways in complex chemical systems is challenging.
- Current methods often require initial guesses for mechanisms and transition states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a systematic, automated approach for predicting reaction pathways.
- To apply this method to determine the full catalytic cycle of HCo(CO)3-catalyzed hydroformylation.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the artificial force induced reaction (AFIR) method for automatic reaction path searching.
- Implementing a semiautomatic determination of the complete catalytic cycle.
Main Results:
- The AFIR-based approach enabled a fully systematic search for reaction pathways.
- The complete catalytic cycle of HCo(CO)3-catalyzed hydroformylation was determined without initial guesses.
- No prior assumptions were needed for the overall mechanism or transition states.
Conclusions:
- This automated approach facilitates nonempirical prediction of complex reaction mechanisms.
- It is applicable to multi-step and multi-pathway reactions, including full catalytic cycles.
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