Coordination Chemistry and Catalysis for the Sustainable Synthesis of Molecules, Macromolecules, and Materials
Team leader : Dr Yohan Champouret
Assistant team leader : Dr Aurélien Bethegnies
Message from the Team Leader
The research conducted within the 3C3M team explores both coordination chemistry and homogeneous catalysis to address current challenges in these fields. Our work focuses on the valorization of small molecules for the synthesis of valuable compounds, the design of controlled macromolecular structures, and the transformation of biomass. Sustainable development is integrated transversally across our research activities in fine chemistry, polymerization, and renewable material valorization. We place a strong emphasis on eco-efficient processes and optimized resource management. With its multidisciplinary expertise in coordination chemistry, homogeneous catalysis, and polymer engineering, the 3C3M team actively contributes to the circular economy and the advancement of green chemistry. In collaboration with academic and industrial partners, we develop innovative solutions for the synthesis of molecules, macromolecules, and materials for the future.
Yohan Champouret, CNRS Researcher
Team members
| Name | Function | Employer |
|---|---|---|
| Aurélien Bethegnies | Assistant Professor | Univ. Lille |
| Yohan Champouret | CNRS Researcher | CNRS |
| Thomas Chenal | Assistant Professor | Univ. Lille |
| Clément Dumont | Associate Researcher | ICAM |
| Mathieu Sauthier | Professor | Univ. Lille |
| Isabelle Suisse | Assistant Professor | Univ. Lille |
| Tiphaine Richard | Associate Researcher | ICAM |
| Marc Visseaux | University Professor | Univ. Lille |
Our research is structured around three complementary topics:
1. Homogeneous Catalysis for Fine Chemistry and Biomass Valorization
Principal Investigators: Aurélien Béthegnies, Mathieu Sauthier, Isabelle Suisse
The team develops catalytic systems based on group 10 metals (Pt, Pd, Ni) for key transformations in fine chemistry. These studies rely on the development of high atom economy reactions and the use of mild reaction conditions. Such reactions enable the valorization of strategic intermediates and industrially relevant organic molecules such as CO, butadiene, and allyl alcohol. These processes also facilitate the transformation of biomass-derived molecules to enhance their application potential (e.g., monomers, surfactants). Beyond applications in organic synthesis, fundamental steps of catalytic mechanisms are also leveraged to rethink the development of photoactive systems for the fabrication of metal coatings of interest in electronics.
2. Coordination Chemistry and Polymerization Catalysis
Principal Investigators: Yohan Champouret, Thomas Chenal, Marc Visseaux
The team investigates coordination and organometallic chemistry involving low-toxicity metals, such as iron and rare-earth elements, to design efficient polymerization catalysts. The main research focus lies in the design of ligands and their corresponding complexes for controlled coordinative polymerization and chain transfer polymerization of olefins (ethylene, styrene), conjugated dienes (butadiene, isoprene, bio-sourced β-myrcene) and cyclic esters (lactide, lactone).
The goal is to produce polymers with well-defined microstructures with the aims of developing polymers with tailored properties, particularly in the fields of elastomers and hybrid polymeric materials. Specifically, we are developing innovative block copolymers with unprecedented properties for use as next-generation thermoplastic elastomers. These materials are also explored for applications as compatibilizers in polyolefin waste blends, promoting upcycling and the design of reusable plastics.
3. Catalytic Transformation of Lignin and Design of Bio-Based Materials
Principal Investigators: Clément Dumont, Tiphaine Richard, Mathieu Sauthier
The team focuses on the functionalization of lignin, a compound derived from non-food agricultural resources (wood, wheat straw) that constitutes the world's largest source of aromatic organic compounds. Our research concentrates on the modification of Kraft lignin, a by-product of the pulp and paper industry, using homogeneous catalysis to graft biobased compounds with reactive functional groups. The aim is to optimize the reactivity of lignin and, ultimately, improve its physico-chemical properties, facilitating its integration into biobased materials for industrial applications.
One of the main challenges of this project is the scaling-up of the processes developed, which requires adjustments to chemical transformation conditions and the use of high-pressure reactors. This guarantees precise process control and real-time optimization. The approach aims to produce sufficient quantities of materials for shaping and assessing the mechanical properties of these plant-based plastics.