Homogeneous catalysts with a mechanical ("machine-like") action.
Chemical reactions may be controlled by either: 1) the minimum threshold energy that must be overcome during collisions between reactant molecules/atoms (the activation energy, E(a)), or: 2) the rate at which reactant collisions occur (the collision frequency, A)--for reactions with low E(a). Reactions of type 2 are governed by the physical, mechanical interaction of the reactants. Such mechanical processes are unusual, but not unknown in molecular catalysts. In this work we examine the machine-like nature of the action in various abiological mechanical catalysts and consider the implications for mimicry of biological catalysts.
Swiegers
Gerhard F
GF
ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia. Swiegers@uow.edu.au
Huang
Junhua
J
Brimblecombe
Robin
R
Chen
Jun
J
Dismukes
G Charles
GC
Mueller-Westerhoff
Ulrich T
UT
Spiccia
Leone
L
Wallace
Gordon G
GG