Reversible multistep synthesis with equilibrium properties based on a selection-oriented process with a repetitive sequence of steps

Reversible processes and reactions exhibit equilibrium and error correction properties that allow them to surpass the limits of irreversible systems. However, such processes are currently limited to completely reversible one-pot transformations. In this work, we analyze and demonstrate a new system of reversible multistep syntheses that enable the introduction of reversibility and equilibrium properties, previously reserved for single-step processes, into step-by-step synthesis transformations. The system uses a repetitive sequence of steps such that the same sequence of reactions is performed on the material again and again in a loop. The final step in each loop transforms unequal fractions of all products back to the starting material. We show that such a system is reversible, even if some steps in the synthesis are irreversible. We mathematically analyze and experimentally demonstrate the properties of such systems and show that they include many features unique to reversible and equilibrium systems. This approach can enable new methods for controlling the distribution of the products of chemical transformations.