Iridium Chemistry and Its Catalytic Applications: a Brief Review

Iridium is very important element among the all transition metals with highest reported oxidation state i.e. +9 in gas phase existing species IrO4. Instead of its less reactivity, it forms number of compounds having oxidation states between -3 to +9. It is second known densest element after osmium. Till now its toxicity and environmental impact is not much more reported and thus it may be use as green element in various fields of its application. Reason behinds it’s less toxicity and environmental impact may be due to its less reactivity and solubility. Corrosion and heat resistant properties of Iridium makes it much more useful element for alloying purpose. Iridium is the member of platinum family and used as catalyst due to its variable oxidation states. Iridium(III) complexes show great catalytic activity in both the acidic and basic medium for various organic as well as inorganic chemical transformations. Catalyst may be defined as the substance which can increases the rate of reaction of a specific chemical reaction without changing its own composition. Iridium is only one reported catalyst which is able to capture the sunlight and convert it into the chemical energy. Thus, it may be used in artificial photosynthesis process to solve our future food problem. Instead of these advantage, Iridium chemistry and its catalytic activity is not much reviewed till date, therefore, present review includes a brief introduction about chemistry and catalytic application of Iridium, which proof itself a boon for beginners to start their research career in the field of Iridium chemistry.