Apeiron Synthesis focused deeply and exclusively on olefin metathesis. Result is advanced ruthenium-based catalysts that are enabling new levels of performance.
Apeiron Synthesis and the Rise of Cutting-Edge Metathesis Catalysts
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
In a landscape where innovation in synthetic chemistry is often incremental, Apeiron Synthesis has taken a distinctly different approach: focusing deeply and exclusively on olefin metathesis as a transformative platform for industrial applications. The result is a growing family of advanced ruthenium-based catalysts that are enabling new levels of performance, selectivity and sustainability across key sectors – from pharmaceuticals to advanced materials. This article looks at how Apeiron’s mix of deep science knowledge and tech skills helped them make catalysts. These catalysts do the job, and we are ready to use them in real work.
What defines a high-performance metathesis catalyst?
For decades, progress in olefin metathesis was driven by academic curiosity. That changed with the introduction of commercially available ruthenium-based catalysts — bringing metathesis into the synthetic mainstream. Today, however, process chemists and product developers are demanding more:
- Broader substrate scope
- Compatibility with impure feedstocks
- Operation at lower catalyst loadings
- Robustness in the presence of air and moisture
- Simplified product purification (e.g. fewer side products and minimal Ru residue)
These are not just technical wish lists – they’re practical barriers to adoption at scale. Apeiron’s portfolio directly addresses all these issues, positioning the company’s catalysts as “fit-for-purpose” tools for modern industry.
Also Read: Introduction to Industrial Chemistry for Beginners.
Built for Customization and Industrial Scale
Catalyst synthesis begins with the rational design of NHC and CAAC ligand environments, enabling fine-tuned control over solubility, stability, and functional group tolerance. This integrated R&D and production model combines:
- Deep in-house expertise from a team of scientists with more than 20 years of experience in olefin metathesis
- Proprietary and licensed IP portfolios spanning Europe, North America and Asia
- Manufacturing capabilities from pilot batches to multi-kilogram deliveries
Catalysts such as UltraCat (AS2186), nitro-Grela (AS2032) and nitro-Grela-I₂ SIPr (AS2053), and UltraNitroCat (AS2091) consistently deliver high reactivity under mild conditions, retain stability in air, and perform well in green solvents. They are built not only for innovation, but for practical implementation at an industrial scale.
Whether in Ring-Closing Metathesis (RCM) for complex API macrocycles or ethenolysis of fatty acid methyl esters into high-value intermediates, Apeiron’s catalysts achieve outstanding turnover numbers – often exceeding 500,000 and in some cases surpassing 1 million.
Also Read: Beginners Guide to Biochemistry.
Not just products – a partner in catalysis
What distinguishes Apeiron Synthesis from traditional suppliers is not just product quality – but its role as an active partner in development. The company supports clients through:
- Catalyst screening and selection
- Process optimization and troubleshooting
- Custom catalyst design
- CDMO services for olefin metathesis scale-up and delivery
The ultimate goal is not simply to sell catalysts – but to help clients build better chemistry.
Future Directions in Metathesis Catalysis
As industry trends continue to favour greener, more efficient chemical processes, the demand for metathesis catalysts that are robust, scalable, and application-specific will only increase. Apeiron Synthesis is well-positioned to lead that shift by focusing on the tools chemistry needs for the future, rather than replicating past solutions.
With its singular focus, deep scientific capabilities, and flexible production model, Apeiron offers more than catalysts – it offers a path forward for chemists seeking to turn ambitious ideas into industrial reality.
Additionally, to stay updated with the latest developments in STEM research, visit ENTECH Online. Basically, this is our digital magazine for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Further, at ENTECH Online, you’ll find a wealth of information.
- Author
- Latest Posts
Sales Representative at Apeiron Synthesis, responsible for developing business relationships and representing the company at industry events. I am dedicated to supporting clients’ success with innovative olefin metathesis catalysts and promoting this technology to new partners.