Models of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase active site: Fe–µ–Fe versus aromatic reactivity

The [FeFe]-hydrogenase enzymes are some of the best catalysts know for generating hydrogen.We have an ongoing programme to understand how their chemistry works, and to replicate the core 'active site' of the enzyme. Here, we aim to establish that muonium reacts at the metal-metal bond in these systems even in the presence of aromatic groups.