Transition Metal-like Oxidative Addition of C–F and C–O Bonds to an Aluminum(I) Center

Dialumene as a Dimeric or Monomeric Al Synthon for C-F Activation in Monofluorobenzene

The activation of C-F bonds has long been regarded as the subject of research in organometallic chemistry, given their synthetic relevance and the fact that fluorine is the most abundant halogen in the Earth's crust. However, C-F bond activation remains a largely unsolved challenge due to the high bond dissociation energies, which was historically dominated by transition metal complexes. Main group elements that can cleave unactivated monofluorobenzene are still quite rare and restricted to s-block complexes with a biphilic nature. Herein, we demonstrate an Al-mediated activation of monofluorobenzene using a neutral dialumene, allowing for the synthesis of the formal oxidative addition products at either double or single aluminum centers. This neutral dialumene system introduces a novel methodology for C-F bond activation based on formal oxidative addition and reductive elimination processes around the two aluminum centers, as demonstrated by combined experimental and computational studies. A "masked" alumylene was unprecedentedly synthesized to prove the proposed reductive elimination pathway. Furthermore, the synthetic utility is highlighted by the functionalization of the resulting aryl-aluminum compounds.

Main group metal-mediated strategies for C-H and C-F bond activation and functionalisation of fluoroarenes

With fluoroaromatic compounds increasingly employed as scaffolds in agrochemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients, the development of methods which facilitate regioselective functionalisation of their C-H and C-F bonds is a frontier of modern synthesis. Along with classical lithiation and nucleophilic aromatic substitution protocols, the vast majority of research efforts have focused on transition metal-mediated transformations enabled by the redox versatilities of these systems. Breaking new ground in this area, recent advances in main group metal chemistry have delineated unique ways in which s-block, Al, Ga and Zn metal complexes can activate this important type of fluorinated molecule. Underpinned by chemical cooperativity, these advances include either the use of heterobimetallic complexes where the combined effect of two metals within a single ligand set enables regioselective low polarity C-H metalation; or the use of novel low valent main group metal complexes supported by special stabilising ligands to induce C-F bond activations. Merging these two different approaches, this Perspective provides an overview of the emerging concept of main-group metal mediated C-H/C-F functionalisation of fluoroarenes. Showcasing the untapped potential that these systems can offer in these processes; focus is placed on how special chemical cooperation is established and how the trapping of key reaction intermediates can inform mechanistic understanding.

Seven-Membered Cyclic Diamidoalumanyls of Heavier Alkali Metals: Structures and C-H Activation of Arenes

Like the previously reported potassium-based system, rubidium and cesium reduction of [{SiNDipp}AlI] ({SiNDipp} = {CH2SiMe2NDipp}2) with the heavier alkali metals [M = Rb and Cs] provides dimeric group 1 alumanyl derivatives, [{SiNDipp}AlM]2. In contrast, similar treatment with sodium results in over-reduction and incorporation of a formal equivalent of [{SiNDipp}Na2] into the resultant sodium alumanyl species. The dimeric K, Rb, and Cs compounds display a variable efficacy toward the C-H oxidative addition of arene C-H bonds at elevated temperatures (Cs > Rb > K, 110 °C) to yield (hydrido)(organo)aluminate species. Consistent with the synthetic experimental observations, computational (DFT) assessment of the benzene C-H activation indicates that rate-determining attack of the Al(I) nucleophile within the dimeric species is facilitated by π-engagement of the arene with the electrophilic M+ cation, which becomes increasingly favorable as group 1 is descended.

Cross- and Multi-Coupling Reactions Using Monofluoroalkanes

Carbon-fluorine bonds are stable and have demonstrated sluggishness against various chemical manipulations. However, selective transformations of C-F bonds can be achieved by developing appropriate conditions as useful synthetic methods in organic chemistry. This review focuses on C-C bond formation at monofluorinated sp3 -hybridized carbons via C-F bond cleavage, including cross-coupling and multi-component coupling reactions. The C-F bond cleavage mechanisms on the sp3 -hybridized carbon centers can be primarily categorized into three types: Lewis acids promoted F atom elimination to generate carbocation intermediates; nucleophilic substitution with metal or carbon nucleophiles supported by the activation of C-F bonds by coordination of Lewis acids; and the cleavage of C-F bonds via a single electron transfer. The characteristic features of alkyl fluorides, in comparison with other (pseudo)halides as promising electrophilic coupling counterparts, are also discussed.

Oxidative Addition of Aryl Electrophiles into a Red-Light-Active Bismuthinidene

The oxidative addition of aryl electrophiles is a fundamental organometallic reaction widely applied in the field of transition metal chemistry and catalysis. However, the analogous version based on main group elements still remains largely underexplored. Here, we report the ability of a well-defined organobismuth(I) complex to undergo formal oxidative addition with a wide range of aryl electrophiles. The process is facilitated by the reactivity of both the ground and excited states of N,C,N-bismuthinidenes upon absorption of low-energy red light.

Iodanyl Radical Catalysis

ConspectusHypervalent iodine reagents find application as selective chemical oxidants in a diverse array of oxidative transformations. The utility of these reagents is often ascribed to (1) the proclivity to engage being selective two-electron redox transformations; (2) facile ligand exchange at the three-centered, four-electron (3c-4e) hypervalent iodine-ligand (I-X) bonds; and (3) the hypernucleofugacity of aryl iodides. One-electron redox and iodine radical chemistry is well-precedented in the context of inorganic hypervalent iodine chemistry─for example, in the iodide-triiodide couple that drives dye-sensitized solar cells. In contrast, organic hypervalent iodine chemistry has historically been dominated by the two-electron I(I)/I(III) and I(III)/I(V) redox couples, which results from intrinsic instability of the intervening odd-electron species. Transient iodanyl radicals (i.e., formally I(II) species), generated by reductive activation of hypervalent I-X bonds, have recently gained attention as potential intermediates in hypervalent iodine chemistry. Importantly, these open-shell intermediates are typically generated by activation of stoichiometric hypervalent iodine reagents, and the role of the iodanyl radical in substrate functionalization and catalysis is largely unknown.Our group has been interested in advancing the chemistry of iodanyl radicals as intermediates in the sustainable synthesis of hypervalent I(III) and I(V) compounds and as novel platforms for substrate activation at open-shell main-group intermediates. In 2018, we disclosed the first example of aerobic hypervalent iodine catalysis by intercepting reactive intermediates in aldehyde autoxidation chemistry. While we initially hypothesized that the observed oxidation was accomplished by aerobically generated peracids via a two-electron I(I)-to-I(III) oxidation reaction, detailed mechanistic studies revealed the critical role of acetate-stabilized iodanyl radical intermediates. We subsequently leveraged these mechanistic insights to develop hypervalent iodine electrocatalysis. Our studies resulted in the identification of new catalyst design principles that give rise to highly efficient organoiodide electrocatalysts that operate at modest applied potentials. These advances addressed classical challenges in hypervalent iodine electrocatalysis related to the need for high applied potentials and high catalyst loadings. In some cases, we were able to isolate the anodically generated iodanyl radical intermediates, which allowed direct interrogation of the elementary chemical reactions characteristic of iodanyl radicals. Both substrate activation via bidirectional proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions at I(II) intermediates and disproportionation reactions of I(II) species to generate I(III) compounds have been experimentally validated.This Account discusses the emerging synthetic and catalytic chemistry of iodanyl radicals. Results from our group have demonstrated that these open-shell species can play a critical role in sustainable synthesis of hypervalent iodine reagents and play a heretofore unappreciated role in catalysis. Realization of I(I)/I(II) catalytic cycles as a mechanistic alternative to canonical two-electron iodine redox chemistry promises to open new avenues to application of organoiodides in catalysis.

Iridium complexes of an ortho-trifluoromethylphenyl substituted PONOP pincer ligand

The synthesis and iridium coordination chemistry of a new pyridine-based phosphinito pincer ligand 2,6-(Ar^F₂PO)₂C₅H₃N (PONOP-Ar^F; Ar^F = 2-(CF₃)C₆H₄) are described, where the P-donors have ortho-trifluoromethylphenyl substituents. The iridium(III) 2,2'-biphenyl (biph) derivative [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(biph)Cl] was obtained by reaction with [Ir(biph)(COD)Cl]₂ (COD = 1,5-cyclooctadiene) and subsequent halide ion abstraction enabled isolation of [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(biph)]⁺ which features an Ir ← F-C bonding interaction in the solid state. Hydrogenolysis of the biphenyl ligand and formation of [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(H)₂]⁺ was achieved by prolonged reaction of [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(biph)]⁺ with dihydrogen. This transformation paved the way for isolation and crystallographic characterisation of low valent iridium derivatives through treatment of the dihydride with tert-butylethylene (TBE). The iridium(I) π-complex [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(TBE)]⁺ is thermally stable but substitution of TBE can be achieved by reaction with carbon monoxide. The solid-state structure of the mono-carbonyl product [Ir(PONOP-Ar^F)(CO)]⁺ is notable for an intermolecular anagostic interaction between the metal centre and a pentane molecule which co-crystallises within a cleft defined by two aryl phosphine substituents.

Reversible Oxidative Addition of Zinc Hydride at a Gallium(I)-Centre: Labile Mono- and Bis(hydridogallyl)zinc Complexes

In the presence of TMEDA (N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethylenediamine), partially deaggregated zinc dihydride as hydrocarbon suspensions react with the gallium(I) compound [(BDI)Ga] (I, BDI={HC(C(CH3 )N(2,6-iPr2 -C6 H3 ))2 }- ) by formal oxidative addition of a Zn-H bond to the gallium(I) centre. Dissociation of the labile TMEDA ligand in the resulting complex [(BDI)Ga(H)-(H)Zn(tmeda)] (1) facilitates insertion of a second equiv. of I into the remaining Zn-H to form a thermally sensitive trinuclear species [{(BDI)Ga(H)}2 Zn] (2). Compound 1 exchanges with polymeric zinc dideuteride [ZnD2 ]n in the presence of TMEDA, and with compounds I and 2 via sequential and reversible ligand dissociation and gallium(I) insertion. Spectroscopic and computational studies demonstrate the reversibility of oxidative addition of each Zn-H bond to the gallium(I) centres.

Unravelling the Potential of Ylides in Stabilizing Low-Valent Group 13 Compounds: Theoretical Predictions of Stable, Five-Membered Group 13 (Aluminum and Gallium) Carbenoids Capable of Small-Molecule Activation

Computational investigations provide evidence toward the remarkable ability of strongly electron-donating ylidic functionalities in stabilizing singlet group 13 carbenoids with promising ligand properties. All of the proposed carbenoids are found to be considerably nucleophilic and possess significant singlet-triplet energy separation values. The calculated activation barriers and reaction free energies obtained for the cleavage of different enthalpically strong bonds by these carbenoids are found to be either comparable to or lower than those of the experimentally evaluated aluminum and gallium carbenoids, thereby indicating their potential in small-molecule activation.

Radical-Friedel-Crafts benzylation of arenes with benzyl ethers over 2H-MoS2: ether cleavage into carbon- and oxygen-centered radicals

The selective activation of C-O ether bonds is an essential tool in organic synthesis and natural polymer depolymerization. However, the direct cleavage of the ether bond is still challenging work, especially breaking this inert and redox-neutral bond to provide one active carbon radical and another oxygen-centered fragment with oxidation capacity that can participate in the controllable radical reaction. We herein report that commercial 2H-MoS₂ with negligible acidity can efficiently catalyze the benzylation of arenes with benzyl ethers, and a new Radical-Friedel-Crafts mechanism is proposed, which is quite different from the strong acid-catalyzed Friedel-Crafts mechanism. With dibenzyl ether as the model benzylation reagent, 2H-MoS₂ can achieve the homolytic cleavage of the Bn-OR bond to generate the benzyl carbon radical and RO˙ species, identified by EPR measurement and radical trap experiments. The following radical-involved benzylation is confirmed by the Hammett results and a plausible pathway is proposed to clarify the Radical-Friedel-Crafts process. Heterogeneous 2H-MoS₂ can be consecutively used four times without regeneration and it offers 94-95% yields of 2-benzyl-1,4-dimethylbenzene from dibenzyl ether and p-xylene in 30 min at 140 °C. Furthermore, this mechanism can provide some inspiration to activate the ether bond and to utilize ether as an oxidant in C-H bond activation.

Structurally characterised intermediate of the oxidative addition of a heteroleptic germylene to gallanediyle

Bond activation reactions using main group metal complexes are gaining increasing interest. We report on reactions of LGa (L = HC[C(Me)N(Ar)]₂, Ar = Dipp = 2,6-i-Pr₂C₆H₃,) with heteroleptic tetrylenes L'ECl (E = Ge, Sn; L' = N(SiMe₃)Ar), yielding the donor-acceptor complex LGa-Sn(Cl)L' (1) or the oxidative addition product L(Cl)GaGeL' (3). The reaction with DMPGeCl (DMP = 2,6-Mes₂C₆H₃, Mes = 2,4,6-Me₃C₆H₂) yielded LGa(μ-Cl)GeDMP (2), which represents an intermediate of the oxidative addition reaction. 1-3 were characterized by NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as by single crystal X-ray diffraction (sc-XRD), while their electronic nature was analyzed by quantum chemical calculations.

Exploring Equilibria between Aluminium(I) and Aluminium(III): The Formation of Dihydroalanes, Masked Dialumenes and Aluminium(I) Species

The design of new reductive routes to low oxidation state aluminium (Al) compounds offers the opportunity to better understand redox processes at the metal centre and develop reactivity accordingly. Here, a monomeric AlI compound acts as a stoichiometric reducing agent towards a series of AlIII dihydrides, leading to the formation of new low oxidation state species including symmetric and asymmetric dihydrodialanes, and a masked dialumene. These compounds are formed by a series of equilibrium processes involving AlI , AlII and AlIII species and product formation can be manipulated by fine-tuning the reaction conditions. The transient formation of monomeric AlI compounds is proposed: this is shown to be energetically viable by computational (DFT) investigations and reactivity studies show support for the formation of AlI species. Importantly, despite the potential for the equilibrium mixtures to lead to ill-defined reactivity, controlled reactivity of these low oxidation state species is observed.

Does Reduction-Induced Isomerization of a Uranium(III) Aryl Complex Proceed via C-H Oxidative Addition and Reductive Elimination across the Uranium(II/IV) Redox Couple?

Reaction of the uranium(III) bis(amidinate) aryl complex {TerphC(NⁱPr)₂}₂U(Terph) (2, where Terph = 4,4″-di-tert-butyl-m-terphenyl-2'-yl) with a strong reductant enabled isolation of isomeric uranium(III) bis(amidinate) aryl product {TerphC(NⁱPr)₂}₂U(Terph*) (3, where Terph* = 4,4″-di-tert-butyl-m-terphenyl-4'-yl). In terms of connectivity, 3 differs from 2 only in the positions of the U-C and C-H bonds on the central aryl ring of the m-terphenyl-based ligand. A deuterium labeling study ruled out mechanisms for this isomerization involving intermolecular abstraction or deprotonation of the ligand C-H bonds activated during the reaction. Due to the complexity of this rapid, heterogeneous reaction, experimental studies could not further distinguish between two different intramolecular C-H activation mechanisms. However, high-level computational studies were consistent with a mechanism that included two sets of unimolecular, mononuclear C-H oxidative addition and reductive elimination steps involving uranium(II/IV).

Geminal C-Cl and Si-Cl bond activation of chloromethanes and chlorosilanes by gallanediyl LGa

The activation of relatively inert E-X σ-bonds by low-valent main group metal complexes is receiving increasing interest. We here confirm the promising potential of gallanediyl LGa (L = HC[C(Me)N(Dip)]₂, Dip = 2,6-i-Pr₂C₆H₃) to activate E-Cl (E = C, Si) σ-bonds of group 14 element compounds. Equimolar reactions of LGa with chloromethanes and chlorosilanes EH_xCl_4-x (E = C, x = 0-2; E = Si, x = 0, 1) occurred with E-Cl bond insertion and formation of gallylmethanes and -silanes L(Cl)GaEH_xCl_3-x (E = C, x = 2 (1), 1 (2), 0 (3); E = Si, x = 1 (4)). In contrast, consecutive insertion into a geminal E-Cl bond was observed with two equivalents of LGa, yielding digallyl complexes [L(Cl)Ga]₂EH_xCl_2-x (E = C, x = 2 (5); E = Si, x = 1 (6), 0 (7)). Compounds 1-7 were characterized by heteronuclear NMR (¹H, ¹³C, ²⁹Si (4, 6)), IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis, and their solid-state structures were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (sc-XRD).

Bismuth Redox Catalysis: An Emerging Main-Group Platform for Organic Synthesis

Bismuth has recently been shown to be able to maneuver between different oxidation states, enabling access to unique redox cycles that can be harnessed in the context of organic synthesis. Indeed, various catalytic Bi redox platforms have been discovered and revealed emerging opportunities in the field of main group redox catalysis. The goal of this perspective is to provide an overview of the synthetic methodologies that have been developed to date, which capitalize on the Bi redox cycling. Recent catalytic methods via low-valent Bi(II)/Bi(III), Bi(I)/Bi(III), and high-valent Bi(III)/Bi(V) redox couples are covered as well as their underlying mechanisms and key intermediates. In addition, we illustrate different design strategies stabilizing low-valent and high-valent bismuth species, and highlight the characteristic reactivity of bismuth complexes, compared to the lighter p-block and d-block elements. Although it is not redox catalysis in nature, we also discuss a recent example of non-Lewis acid, redox-neutral Bi(III) catalysis proceeding through catalytic organometallic steps. We close by discussing opportunities and future directions in this emerging field of catalysis. We hope that this Perspective will provide synthetic chemists with guiding principles for the future development of catalytic transformations employing bismuth.

Stable N-heterocyclic borylenes with promising ligand properties: a contribution from theory

DFT calculations reveal the power of ylides in stabilizing neutral singlet cyclic borylenes that are found to be capable of activating a variety of small molecules having enthalpically strong bonds.

A Ni(ii)-catalyzed reductive cross-coupling reaction of oxalates and thiosulfonates/selenosulfonates

A Ni(ii)-catalyzed reductive cross-coupling reaction of oxalates and thiosulfonates/selenosulfonates to synthesize benzylic sulfides/selenides under mild conditions is developed.

Substituent Effects on Aluminyl Anions and Derived Systems: A High-Level Theory

Aluminyl anions are low-valent aluminum species bearing a lone pair of electrons and a negative charge. These systems have drawn recent synthetic interest for their nucleophilic nature, allowing for the activation of σ-bonds, and have been proposed as a pathway to hydrogen energy storage. In this research, we provide high-level ab initio geometries and energies for both the simplest aluminyl anion (AlH₂^-) and several substituted derivatives. Geometries are reported using the gold-standard CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pV(T+d)Z level of theory. Energies were extrapolated to the complete basis set limit through the focal point approach, utilizing coupled-cluster methods through perturbative quadruples and basis sets up to five-ζ quality. Geometries were rationalized using electrostatic, steric, and orbital donation effects. The donation from substituents to Al is accompanied by back-donation effects, a property traditionally thought of in transition-metal systems. Stereoelectronic effects through the secondary orbital interaction play a fundamental role in stabilizing these low-valent aluminum compounds and would likely also affect the feasibility of their use within several industrial applications. The energetic analysis of the formation of each substituted anion is rationalized as the result of three energetic schemes. The effectiveness of these schemes for determining the relative formation energies is discussed.

Alumination of aryl methyl ethers: switching between sp2 and sp3 C-O bond functionalisation with Pd-catalysis

The reaction of [{(ArNCMe)₂CH}Al] (Ar = 2,6-di-iso-propylphenyl) with aryl methyl ethers proceeded with alumination of the sp³ C-O bond. The selectivity of this reaction could be switched by inclusion of a catalyst. In the presence of [Pd(PCy₃)₂], chemoselective sp² C-O bond functionalisation was observed. Kinetic isotope experiments and DFT calculations support a catalytic pathway involving the ligand-assisted oxidative addition of the sp² C-O bond to a Pd-Al intermetallic complex.

Contrasting the Mechanism of H2 Activation by Monomeric and Potassium-Stabilized Dimeric AlI Complexes: Do Potassium Atoms Exert any Cooperative Effect?

Aluminyl anions are low-valent, anionic, and carbenoid aluminum species commonly found stabilized with potassium cations from the reaction of Al-halogen precursors and alkali compounds. These systems are very reactive toward the activation of σ-bonds and in reactions with electrophiles. Various research groups have detected that the potassium atoms play a stabilization role via electrostatic and cation ⋯ π interactions with nearby (aromatic)-carbocyclic rings from both the ligand and from the reaction with unsaturated substrates. Since stabilizing K⋯H bonds are witnessed in the activation of this class of molecules, we aim to unveil the role of these metals in the activation of the smaller and less polarizable H₂ molecule, together with a comprehensive characterization of the reaction mechanism. In this work, the activation of H₂ utilizing a NON-xanthene-Al dimer, [K{Al(NON)}]₂ (D) and monomeric, [Al(NON)]^- (M) complexes are studied using density functional theory and high-level coupled-cluster theory to reveal the potential role of K⁺ atoms during the activation of this gas. Furthermore, we aim to reveal whether D is more reactive than M (or vice versa), or if complicity between the two monomer units exits within the D complex toward the activation of H₂ . The results suggest that activation energies using the dimeric and monomeric complexes were found to be very close (around 33 kcal mol^-1 ). However, a partition of activation energies unveiled that the nature of the energy barriers for the monomeric and dimeric complexes are inherently different. The former is dominated by a more substantial distortion of the reactants (and increased interaction energies between them). Interestingly, during the oxidative addition, the distortion of the Al complex is minimal, while H₂ distorts the most, usually over 0.77 Δ E d i s t ≠ . Overall, it is found here that electrostatic and induction energies between the complexes and H₂ are the main stabilizing components up to the respective transition states. The results suggest that the K⁺ atoms act as stabilizers of the dimeric structure, and their cooperative role on the reaction mechanism may be negligible, acting as mere spectators in the activation of H₂ . Cooperation between the two monomers in D is lacking, and therefore the subsequent activation of H₂ is wholly disengaged.

Reductive elimination of [AlH2]+ from a cationic Ga-Al dihydride

Oxidative addition of TMEDA-supported [AlH₂]⁺ to [{BDI}Ga] (BDI = {HC(C(CH₃)N(2,6-iPr₂-C₆H₃))₂}) provides [{BDI}Ga(H)-Al(H)(tmeda)][B(C₆H₃-3,5-Me₂)₄] (TMEDA = N,N,N'N'-tetramethylethylenediamine) with a covalent metal-metal bond. The reaction is readily reversed by substituting TMEDA for an N-heterocyclic carbene or dissolving in THF.

Factors Controlling the Aluminum(I)-meta-Selective C-H Activation in Arenes

The so far poorly understood factors controlling the complete meta-selectivity observed in the C-H activation reactions of alkylarenes promoted by aluminyl anions have been explored in detail by means of Density Functional Theory calculations. To this end, a combination of state-of-the-art computational methods, namely the activation strain model of reactivity and energy decomposition analysis, has been applied to quantitatively unveil the origin of the selectivity of the transformation as well as the influence of the associated potassium cation. It is found that the selectivity takes place during the initial nucleophilic addition step where the key LP(Al)→π*(C=C) molecular orbital interaction is more stabilizing for the meta-pathway, which results in a stronger interaction between the reactants along the entire transformation.

Catalytic Hydrodefluorination via Oxidative Addition, Ligand Metathesis, and Reductive Elimination at Bi(I)/Bi(III) Centers

Herein, we report a hydrodefluorination reaction of polyfluoroarenes catalyzed by bismuthinidenes, Phebox-Bi(I) and OMe-Phebox-Bi(I). Mechanistic studies on the elementary steps support a Bi(I)/Bi(III) redox cycle that comprises C(sp²)-F oxidative addition, F/H ligand metathesis, and C(sp²)-H reductive elimination. Isolation and characterization of a cationic Phebox-Bi(III)(4-tetrafluoropyridyl) triflate manifests the feasible oxidative addition of Phebox-Bi(I) into the C(sp²)-F bond. Spectroscopic evidence was provided for the formation of a transient Phebox-Bi(III)(4-tetrafluoropyridyl) hydride during catalysis, which decomposes at low temperature to afford the corresponding C(sp²)-H bond while regenerating the propagating Phebox-Bi(I). This protocol represents a distinct catalytic example where a main-group center performs three elementary organometallic steps in a low-valent redox manifold.

Cationic Heterobimetallic Mg(Zn)/Al(Ga) Combinations for Cooperative C-F Bond Cleavage

Low-valent (Me BDI)Al and (Me BDI)Ga and highly Lewis acidic cations in [(tBu BDI)M+ ⋅C6 H6 ][(B(C6 F5 )4 - ] (M=Mg or Zn, Me BDI=HC[C(Me)N-DIPP]2 , tBu BDI=HC[C(tBu)N-DIPP]2 , DIPP=2,6-diisopropylphenyl) react to heterobimetallic cations [(tBu BDI)Mg-Al(Me BDI)+ ], [(tBu BDI)Mg-Ga(Me BDI)+ ] and [(tBu BDI)Zn-Ga(Me BDI)+ ]. These cations feature long Mg-Al (or Ga) bonds while the Zn-Ga bond is short. The [(tBu BDI)Zn-Al(Me BDI)+ ] cation was not formed. Combined AIM and charge calculations suggest that the metal-metal bonds to Zn are considerably more covalent, whereas those to Mg should be described as weak AlI (or GaI )→Mg2+ donor bonds. Failure to isolate the Zn-Al combination originates from cleavage of the C-F bond in the solvent fluorobenzene to give (tBu BDI)ZnPh and (Me BDI)AlF+ which is extremely Lewis acidic and was not observed, but (Me BDI)Al(F)-(μ-F)-(F)Al(Me BDI)+ was verified by X-ray diffraction. DFT calculations show that the remarkably facile C-F bond cleavage follows a dearomatization/rearomatization route.

Reversible Reductive Elimination in Aluminum(II) Dihydrides

Oxidative addition and reductive elimination are defining reactions of transition‐metal organometallic chemistry. In main‐group chemistry, oxidative addition is now well‐established but reductive elimination reactions are not yet general in the same way. Herein, we report dihydrodialanes supported by amidophosphine ligands. The ligand serves as a stereochemical reporter for reversible reductive elimination/oxidative addition chemistry involving Al^I and Al^III intermediates.

Cooperative Bond Activation by a Bimetallic Main-Group Complex

Inspired by natural metalloenzymes that efficiently catalyze a variety of transformations, chemists have developed large numbers of dinuclear transition-metal complexes with extraordinary properties and reactivity patterns. For main-group element compounds, however, metal-metal cooperativity is much less explored. Here we present the synthesis and characterization of a room-temperature-stable compound with two separated two-coordinated gallium(I) centers possessing both a lone pair of electrons and a vacant orbital, reminiscent of singlet carbenes. This species displays enhanced reactivity compared to its mononuclear counterpart due to bimetallic cooperativity that allows for the facile activation of strong C-F bonds across the gallium-gallium bond. Two mechanistic scenarios of the cooperative bond activation have been identified by DFT and DLPNO-CCSD(T) calculations.

Diverse reactivity of carbenes and silylenes towards fluoropyridines

The reaction of IDipp with C5F5N led to functionalization of all three carbon atoms of the imidazole ring with HF2- as the counter-anion (1). Reactivity with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoropyridine gives only C-F bond activation leaving C-H bonds intact (5b). The reaction of SIDipp with C5F5N in the presence of BF3 afforded the ring cleavage product (3). Analogous reactions with silylene led to oxidative addition at the Si(ii) center.

Arene C-H Activation at Aluminium(I): meta Selectivity Driven by the Electronics of SN Ar Chemistry

The reactivity of the electron-rich anionic AlI aluminyl compound K2 [(NON)Al]2 (NON=4,5-bis(2,6-diisopropylanilido)-2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,9-dimethylxanthene) towards mono- and disubstituted arenes is reported. C-H activation chemistry with n-butylbenzene gives exclusively the product of activation at the arene meta position. Mechanistically, this transformation proceeds in a single step via a concerted Meisenheimer-type transition state. Selectivity is therefore based on similar electronic factors to classical SN Ar chemistry, which implies the destabilisation of transition states featuring electron-donating groups in either ortho or para positions. In the cases of toluene and the three isomers of xylene, benzylic C-H activation is also possible, with the product(s) formed reflecting the feasibility (or otherwise) of competing arene C-H activation at a site which is neither ortho nor para to a methyl substituent.

A Mechanistic Study on Reactions of Group 13 Diyls LM with Cp*SbX2 : From Stibanyl Radicals to Antimony Hydrides

Oxidative addition of Cp*SbX2 (X=Cl, Br, I; Cp*=C5 Me5 ) to group 13 diyls LM (M=Al, Ga, In; L=HC[C(Me)N (Dip)]2 , Dip=2,6-iPr2 C6 H3 ) yields elemental antimony (M=Al) or the corresponding stibanylgallanes [L(X)Ga]Sb(X)Cp* (X=Br 1, I 2) and -indanes [L(X)In]Sb(X)Cp* (X=Cl 5, Br 6, I 7). 1 and 2 react with a second equivalent of LGa to eliminate decamethyl-1,1'-dihydrofulvalene (Cp*2 ) and form stibanyl radicals [L(X)Ga]2 Sb. (X=Br 3, I 4), whereas analogous reactions of 5 and 6 with LIn selectively yield stibanes [L(X)In]2 SbH (X=Cl 8, Br 9) by elimination of 1,2,3,4-tetramethylfulvene. The reactions are proposed to proceed via formation of [L(X)M]2 SbCp* as reaction intermediate, which is supported by the isolation of [L(Cl)Ga]2 SbCp (11, Cp=C5 H5 ). The reaction mechanism was further studied by computational calculations using two different models. The energy values for the Ga- and the In-substituted model systems showing methyl groups instead of the very bulky Dip units are very similar, and in both cases the same products are expected. Homolytic Sb-C bond cleavage yields van der Waals complexes from the as-formed radicals ([L(Cl)M]2 Sb. and Cp*. ), which can be stabilized by hydrogen atom abstraction to give the corresponding hydrides, whereas the direct formation of Sb hydrides starting from [L(Cl)M]2 SbCp* via concerted β-H elimination is unlikely. The consideration of the bulky Dip units reveals that the amount of the steric overload in the intermediate I determines the product formation (radical vs. hydride).

Boosting Low-Valent Aluminum(I) Reactivity with a Potassium Reagent

The reagent RK [R=CH(SiMe3 )2 or N(SiMe3 )2 ] was expected to react with the low-valent (DIPP BDI)Al (DIPP BDI=HC[C(Me)N(DIPP)]2 , DIPP=2,6-iPr-phenyl) to give [(DIPP BDI)AlR]- K+ . However, deprotonation of the Me group in the ligand backbone was observed and [H2 C=C(N-DIPP)-C(H)=C(Me)-N-DIPP]Al- K+ (1) crystallized as a bright-yellow product (73 %). Like most anionic AlI complexes, 1 forms a dimer in which formally negatively charged Al centers are bridged by K+ ions, showing strong K+ ⋅⋅⋅DIPP interactions. The rather short Al-K bonds [3.499(1)-3.588(1) Å] indicate tight bonding of the dimer. According to DOSY NMR analysis, 1 is dimeric in C6 H6 and monomeric in THF, but slowly reacts with both solvents. In reaction with C6 H6 , two C-H bond activations are observed and a product with a para-phenylene moiety was exclusively isolated. DFT calculations confirm that the Al center in 1 is more reactive than that in (DIPP BDI)Al. Calculations show that both AlI and K+ work in concert and determines the reactivity of 1.

Rationalizing the AlI -Promoted Oxidative Addition of C-C Versus C-H Bonds in Arenes

The factors controlling the oxidative addition of C-C and C-H bonds in arenes mediated by Al^I have been computationally explored by means of Density Functional Theory calculations. To this end, we compared the processes involving benzene, naphthalene and anthracene which are promoted by a recently prepared anionic Al^I -carbenoid. It is found that this species exhibits a strong tendency to oxidatively activate C-H bonds over C-C bonds, with the notable exception of benzene, where the C-C bond activation is feasible but only under kinetic control reaction conditions. State-of-the-art computational methods based on the combination of the Activation Strain Model of reactivity and the Energy Decomposition Analysis have been used to rationalize the competition between both bond activation reactions as well as to quantitatively analyze in detail the ultimate factors controlling these transformations.

Palladium-catalysed C-F alumination of fluorobenzenes: mechanistic diversity and origin of selectivity

A palladium pre-catalyst, [Pd(PCy₃)₂] is reported for the efficient and selective C–F alumination of fluorobenzenes with the aluminium(i) reagent [{(ArNCMe)₂CH}Al] (1, Ar = 2,6-di-iso-propylphenyl). The catalytic protocol results in the transformation of sp² C–F bonds to sp² C–Al bonds and provides a route to reactive organoaluminium complexes (2a–h) from fluorocarbons. The catalyst is highly active. Reactions proceed within 5 minutes at 25 °C (and at appreciable rates at even −50 °C) and the scope includes low-fluorine-content substrates such as fluorobenzene, difluorobenzenes and trifluorobenzenes. The reaction proceeds with complete chemoselectivity (C–F vs. C–H) and high regioselectivities (>90% for C–F bonds adjacent to the most acidic C–H sites). The heterometallic complex [Pd(PCy₃)(1)₂] was shown to be catalytically competent. Catalytic C–F alumination proceeds with a KIE of 1.1–1.3. DFT calculations have been used to model potential mechanisms for C–F bond activation. These calculations suggest that two competing mechanisms may be in operation. Pathway 1 involves a ligand-assisted oxidative addition to [Pd(1)₂] and leads directly to the product. Pathway 2 involves a stepwise C–H → C–F functionalisation mechanism in which the C–H bond is broken and reformed along the reaction coordinate, guiding the catalyst to an adjacent C–F site. This second mechanism explains the experimentally observed regioselectivity. Experimental support for this C–H activation playing a key role in C–F alumination was obtained by employing [{(MesNCMe)₂CH}AlH₂] (3, Mes = 2,4,6-tri-methylphenyl) as a reagent in place of 1. In this instance, the kinetic C–H alumination intermediate could be isolated. Under catalytic conditions this intermediate converts to the thermodynamic C–F alumination product.

A palladium pre-catalyst, [Pd(PCy₃)₂] is reported for the efficient and selective C–F alumination of fluorobenzenes with the aluminium(i) reagent [{(ArNCMe)₂CH}Al] (Ar = 2,6-di-iso-propylphenyl).

Catalyst control of selectivity in the C-O bond alumination of biomass derived furans

Non-catalysed and catalysed reactions of aluminium reagents with furans, dihydrofurans and dihydropyrans were investigated and lead to ring-expanded products due to the insertion of the aluminium reagent into a C–O bond of the heterocycle. Specifically, the reaction of [{(ArNCMe)₂CH}Al] (Ar = 2,6-di-iso-propylphenyl, 1) with furans proceeded between 25 and 80 °C leading to dearomatised products due to the net transformation of a sp² C–O bond into a sp² C–Al bond. The kinetics of the reaction of 1 with furan were found to be 1st order with respect to 1 with activation parameters ΔH^‡ = +19.7 (±2.7) kcal mol⁻¹, ΔS^‡ = −18.8 (±7.8) cal K⁻¹ mol⁻¹ and ΔG^‡_{298 K} = +25.3 (±0.5) kcal mol⁻¹ and a KIE of 1.0 ± 0.1. DFT calculations support a stepwise mechanism involving an initial (4 + 1) cycloaddition of 1 with furan to form a bicyclic intermediate that rearranges by an α-migration. The selectivity of ring-expansion is influenced by factors that weaken the sp² C–O bond through population of the σ*-orbital. Inclusion of [Pd(PCy₃)₂] as a catalyst in these reactions results in expansion of the substrate scope to include 2,3-dihydrofurans and 3,4-dihydropyrans and improves selectivity. Under catalysed conditions, the C–O bond that breaks is that adjacent to the sp²C–H bond. The aluminium(iii) dihydride reagent [{(MesNCMe)₂CH}AlH₂] (Mes = 2,4,6-trimethylphenyl, 2) can also be used under catalytic conditions to effect a dehydrogenative ring-expansion of furans. Further mechanistic analysis shows that C–O bond functionalisation occurs via an initial C–H bond alumination. Kinetic products can be isolated that are derived from installation of the aluminium reagent at the 2-position of the heterocycle. C–H alumination occurs with a KIE of 4.8 ± 0.3 consistent with a turnover limiting step involving oxidative addition of the C–H bond to the palladium catalyst. Isomerisation of the kinetic C–H aluminated product to the thermodynamic C–O ring expansion product is an intramolecular process that is again catalysed by [Pd(PCy₃)₂]. DFT calculations suggest that the key C–O bond breaking step involves attack of an aluminium based metalloligand on the 2-palladated heterocycle. The new methodology has been applied to important platform chemicals from biomass.

Non-catalysed and catalysed reactions of aluminium reagents with furans, dihydrofurans and dihydropyrans were investigated and lead to ring-expanded products due to the insertion of the aluminium reagent into a C–O bond of the heterocycle.

Shedding Light on the Diverse Reactivity of NacNacAl with N-Heterocycles

The aluminum(I) compound NacNacAl (NacNac=[ArNC(Me)CHC(Me)NAr]^- , Ar=2,6-iPr₂ C₆ H₃ , 1) shows diverse and substrate-controlled reactivity in reactions with N-heterocycles. 4-Dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), a basic substrate in which the 4-position is blocked, induces rearrangement of NacNacAl by shifting a hydrogen atom from the methyl group of the NacNac backbone to the aluminum center. In contrast, C-H activation of the methyl group of 4-picoline takes place to produce a species with a reactive terminal methylene. Reaction of 1 with 3,5-lutidine results in the first example of an uncatalyzed, room-temperature cleavage of an sp² C-H bond (in the 4-position) by an Al^I species. Another reactivity mode was observed for quinoline, which undergoes 2,2'-coupling. Finally, the reaction of 1 with phthalazine produces the product of N-N bond cleavage.

Activation of Aromatic C-F Bonds by a N-Heterocyclic Olefin (NHO)

A N-heterocyclic olefin (NHO), a terminal alkene selectively activates aromatic C-F bonds without the need of any additional catalyst. As a result, a straightforward methodology was developed for the formation of different fluoroaryl-substituted alkenes in which the central carbon-carbon double bond is in a twisted geometry.

Activation of C–F, Si–F, and S–F Bonds by N-Heterocyclic Carbenes and Their Isoelectronic Analogues

Reactions involving C–F, Si–F, and S–F bond cleavage with N-heterocyclic carbenes and isoelectronic species are reviewed. Most examples involve activation of aromatic C–F bond via an SNAr pathway and nucleophilic substitution of fluorine in electron-deficient olefins. The mechanism of the C–F bond activation depends on the reaction partners and the reaction can proceed via addition–elimination, oxidative addition (concerted or stepwise) or metathesis. The adducts formed upon substitution find applications in organic synthesis, as ligands and as stable radical precursors, but in most cases, their full potential remains unexplored.

1 Introduction

1.1 The C–F Bond

1.2 C–F Bond Activation: A Short Summary

1.3 C–F Bond Activation: A Special Case of SNAr

1.4 N-Heterocyclic Carbenes (NHCs)

1.5 The Purpose of this Article

2 C–F bond Activation in Acyl Fluorides

3 Activation of Vinylic C–F Bonds

4 Activation of Aromatic C–F Bonds

5 X–F Bond Activation (X = S or Si)

6 C–F Bond Activation by Main Group Compounds Isoelectronic with NHCs

7 Conclusions and Outlook

A Stable Calcium Alumanyl

A seven-membered N,N'-heterocyclic potassium alumanyl nucleophile is introduced and utilised in the metathetical synthesis of Mg-Al and Ca-Al bonded derivatives. Both species have been characterised by experimental and theoretical means, allowing a rationalisation of the greater reactivity of the heavier group 2 species implied by an initial assay of their reactivity.

Formation of Formic Acid Derivatives through Activation and Hydroboration of CO2 by Low-Valent Group 14 (Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) Catalysts

The chemistry of low-valent main group elements has attracted much attention in the past decade. These species are relevant because they have been able to mimic transition metal behavior in catalytic applications, with decreased material costs and diminished toxicity. In this contribution, we study the L¹EH catalysts (E = Si(II), Ge(II), Sn(II), and Pb(II); L¹ = [ArNC(Me)CHC(Me)NAr] with Ar = 2,6-iPr₂C₆H₃) for the formation of formic acid derivatives through hydroboration of CO₂. Detailed characterization of relevant structures on the potential energy surface enabled us to rationalize different paths for the hydroboration of CO₂. Interestingly, it was found that according to the activation energies for the whole catalytic cycle, the process of transformation of CO₂ becomes more favored going down group 14. However, an effective energetic decrease for the process (taking as the reference the uncatalyzed reaction between CO₂ and HBpin) is evidenced just from the germanium analogue. The trend in reactivity found in the present study is a direct consequence of the change in the central main group element, enabling enhanced polar character of the E-H (L¹EH in the CO₂ activation step) and E-O (metal formates in the hydroboration step) bonds as the atomic radius increases. The transient stabilization of reaction intermediates found in the hydroboration step was rationalized through the non-covalent interaction index (NCI) and symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (SAPT). This computational study highlights the reactivity trends in group-14-based hydride catalysts in hydrometalation and posterior hydroboration to form formic acid intermediates. We hope that this study will motivate further experimental work in low-valent lead chemistry.