Implementing modular design principles for molecular homogeneous catalyst discovery

Optimising the structure of molecular homogeneous catalysts is essential to ensure they perform as desired. This can be particularly challenging when seeking to realise selectivity in a catalytic process. The modular design strategy provides a powerful approach for evaluating catalyst structure by generating large and diverse libraries of catalysts. Evaluating these catalyst libraries gives invaluable insights into catalyst function and informs the development of more efficient catalysts. In this perspective, we look at various strategies that have been used to implement modular designs to develop new ligands, organocatalysts and photocatalysts.