Tuning reactivity through modifications of organometallic complexes on an electrode surface

The versatility of using electrodes to control catalytic reactions heralds a new paradigm in designing chemical transformations based on molecular compounds. Functionalization of molecular compounds on an electrically addressable surface offers an additional degree of freedom in controlling a catalyst’s reactivity and selectivity. Herein, we discuss the possibilities to harness electrode-supported molecular catalysts in electrocatalytic reactions and electrostatic effects observed in the surface-anchored systems recently reported. Furthermore, we summarize reported functionalization methods and outline how the proximate electrode asserts its influence on catalysis by a variety of avenues.