Transition‐Metal Complexes with (C–C)→M Agostic Interactions

Metathesis by Partner Interchange in σ-Bond Ligands: Expanding Applications of the σ-CAM Mechanism

In 2007 two of us defined the σ-Complex Assisted Metathesis mechanism (Perutz and Sabo-Etienne, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2007, 46, 2578-2592), that is, the σ-CAM concept. This new approach to reaction mechanisms brought together metathesis reactions involving the formation of a variety of metal-element bonds through partner-interchange of σ-bond complexes. The key concept that defines a σ-CAM process is a single transition state for metathesis that is connected by two intermediates that are σ-bond complexes while the oxidation state of the metal remains constant in precursor, intermediates and product. This mechanism is appropriate in situations where σ-bond complexes have been isolated or computed as well-defined minima. Unlike several other mechanisms, it does not define the nature of the transition state. In this review, we highlight advances in the characterization and dynamic rearrangements of σ-bond complexes, most notably alkane and zincane complexes, but also different geometries of silane and borane complexes. We set out a selection of catalytic and stoichiometric examples of the σ-CAM mechanism that are supported by strong experimental and/or computational evidence. We then draw on these examples to demonstrate that the scope of the σ-CAM mechanism has expanded to classes of reaction not envisaged in 2007 (additional σ-bond ligands, agostic complexes, sp2 -carbon, surfaces). Finally, we provide a critical comparison to alternative mechanisms for metathesis of metal-element bonds.

α-C–C agostic interactions and C–H bond activation in scandium cyclopropyl complexes

Electron deficient scandium cyclopropyl complexes have been synthesized and fully characterized for the first time, and a combination of solid XRD, solution NMR and theoretical studies well demonstrated the α-C–C agostic interactions in the complexes.

Carbozincation of Substituted 2-Alkynylamines, 1-Alkynylphosphines, 1-Alkynylphosphine Sulfides with Et2Zn in the Presence of Catalytic System of Ti(O-iPr)4 and EtMgBr

The EtMgBr and Ti(O-iPr)4-catalyzed ethylzincation of 1-alkynylphosphine sulfides with Et2Zn in diethyl ether followed by hydrolysis and deuterolysis affords corresponding β,β-disubstituted 1-alkenylphosphine sulfides with high yield. The EtMgBr and Ti(O-iPr)4-catalyzed reaction of 2-alkynylamines, 1-alkynylphosphines, and 1-alkenylphosphine sulfides with Et2Zn in various solvents was studied. It has been found that the reaction of 2-alkynylamines and 1-alkynylphosphines in methylene chloride, hexane, toluene, benzene, and anisole leads to the selective formation of 2-alkenylamines and 1-alkenylphosphine oxides after oxidation with H2O2.

Chasing the agostic interaction in ligand assisted cyclometallation reactions of palladium(ii)

Computations show that a possible aromatic ring agostic intermediate seen by NMR spectroscopy in a cyclometallation reaction by palladium(ii) can involve CCπ electron density close to the agostic carbon being donated to the metal.