Revolutionizing Organic Synthesis with Sodium and Iron

(University of Bern, April 01, 2025)

For the first time, researchers have used sodium and iron to replace expensive metals like palladium in creating complex organic molecules. This method, developed by Prof. Dr. Eva Hevia and Dr. Andreu Tortajada Navarro at the University of Bern and the RIKEN Institute in Japan, offers a greener, more sustainable approach to chemical manufacturing. By using earth-abundant, non-toxic sodium and iron, this breakthrough reduces reliance on rare metals and lessens environmental impact, opening new paths for producing pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The team created a cross-coupling reaction that uses sodium and iron to make complex organic molecules in a more eco-friendly way. This method capitalizes on the reactivity of organosodium compounds and iron's catalytic power, challenging current chemical synthesis methods. This innovation could transform the manufacturing of essential compounds, setting a new standard in sustainable chemistry by demonstrating the power of combining abundant elements for effective results.