Electrostatic catalysis of azide–alkyne click reactions from the nanoscale to the macroscale

Abstract

This thesis investigates the catalysis of azide–alkyne cycloaddition at silicon–solution interfaces through the application of external electric fields. It extended experimental platforms to harness electrostatic catalysis from molecular scale to a larger electrode interfaces. It identifies isomers produced by the catalysis reaction and details the experimental conditions needed. Moreover, it introduces a novel Si–D surface strategy that protects silicon from oxidation, thereby overcoming data interpretation challenges and enhancing electrostatic catalysis in industrial settings.