A Modular, Argon-Driven Flow Platform for Natural Product Synthesis and Late-Stage Transformations

Abstract

A modular flow platform for the synthesis of natural products and their analogs was designed. To access different reaction setups with a maximum of flexibility, interchangeable 3D-printed components serve as backbone. By switching from conventional liquid- to gas-driven flow, reagent and solvent waste is minimized which translates into an advantageous sustainability and economy profile. To enable inert conditions, practical “Schlenk-in-flow” techniques for the safe handling of oxygen- and moisture sensitive reagents were developed. Adopting these techniques, reproducible transformations in natural product synthesis were achieved.

A Modular, Argon-Driven Flow Platform for Natural Product Synthesis and Late-Stage Transformations

“…To demonstrate the benefit of our flow system, the key steps of two natural product syntheses previously reported by our groups were realized in flow. Finally, a sustainable flow protocol for the site-selective chlorination of (+)-sclareolide employing decatungstate as photocatalyst was developed . We believe this initial report will spark the interest of other research groups in our flow platform and enable further natural product synthesis projects.…”