Access to thioethers from thiols and alcohols via homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis

A metal-free dehydrative thioetherification method has been reported, enabling the conversion of various alcohols and thiols into thioethers. By employing triflic acid as a catalyst or utilizing a recyclable NAFION® superacid catalyst, these methods significantly improve the efficiency and practicality of sulfide preparation.

Trityl Cation-Catalyzed Hosomi-Sakurai Reaction of Allylsilane with β,γ-Unsaturated α-Ketoester to Form γ,γ-Disubstituted α-Ketoesters

(Ph3C)[BPh(F)4]-catalyzed Hosomi-Sakurai allylation of allylsilanes with β,γ-unsaturated α-ketoesters has been developed to give γ,γ-disubstituted α-ketoesters in high yields with excellent chemoselectivity. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that trityl cation dominates the catalysis, while the silyl cation plays a minor role.

Recent Advances in Group 14 and 15 Lewis Acids for Frustrated Lewis Pair Chemistry

Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP) which rely on the cooperative action of Lewis acids and Lewis bases, played a prominent role in the advancement of main-group catalysis. While the early days of FLP chemistry witnessed the dominance of boranes, there is a growing body of reports on alternative Lewis acids derived from groups 14 and 15. This short review focuses on the discovery of such non-boron candidates reported since 2015.

1,1,1,3,3,3-Hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP)-Assisted Catalyst-Free Sulfonation of Allylic Alcohols with Sulfinyl Amides

A highly regioselective and catalyst-free sulfonation of allylic alcohols with sulfinyl amides has been realized. Such a mix-and-go procedure provides a convenient approach to synthetically various allylic sulfones under mild reaction conditions. Furthermore, this novel reaction shows ample substrate scope and outstanding functional group tolerance and could also be scaled-up. Meanwhile, it is the first example that sulfinyl amides act as a powerful sulfur nucleophile in the reactions. 1,1,1,3,3,3-Hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP) as a solvent plays a critical role in allylic sulfonation.

Investigating Tetrel-Based Neutral Frustrated Lewis Pairs for Hydrogen Activation

Tetrel Lewis acids are a prospective alternative to commonly employed neutral boranes in frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry. While cationic tetrylium Lewis acids, being isolobal and iso(valence)electronic, are a natural replacement to boranes, neutral tetrel Lewis acids allude as less trivial options due to the absence of a formally empty p orbital on the acceptor atom. Recently, a series of intramolecular geminal FLPs (C₂F₅)₃E-CH₂-P(tBu)₂ (E = Si, Ge, Sn) featuring neutral tetrel atoms as acceptor sites has been reported for activation of small molecules including H₂. In this work, through density functional theory computations, we elucidate the general mechanistic picture of H₂ activation by this family of FLPs. Our findings reveal that the acceptor atom derives the required Lewis acidity utilizing the antibonding orbitals of its adjacent bonds with the individual contributions depending on the identity of the acceptor and the donor atoms. By varying the identity of the Lewis acid and Lewis base sites and attached substituents, we unravel their interplay on the energetics of the H₂ activation. We find that switching the donor site from P to N significantly affects the synchronous nature of the bond breaking/formations along the reaction pathway, and as a result, N-bearing FLPs have a more favorable H₂ activation profile than those with P. Our results are quantitatively discussed in detail within the framework of the activation-strain model of reactivity along with the energy-decomposition analysis method. Finally, the reductive elimination decomposition route pertinent to the plausible extension of the H₂ activation to catalytic hydrogenation by these FLPs is also examined.

Catalytic base-controlled regiodivergent heteronucleophilic hydrofunctionalization of β,γ-unsaturated amides

A general catalytic base-controlled regiodivergent nucleophilic hydrofunctionalization of both terminal and internal β,γ-unsaturated amides has been reported. The atom-economical addition of various S/P-based nucleophiles was also exclusively chemoselective. More than 60 branched or linear hetero-substituted aliphatic amides were synthesized from common starting materials under transition-metal-free conditions. Preliminary mechanistic studies are consistent with our proposed divergent catalytic cycles.

Selective oxidative intermolecular carbosulphenylation of aryl alkenes with thiols and nucleophiles via a 1,2-dithioethane intermediate

A periodate lithium-oxidized difunctionalisation of aryl alkenes with thiols and electron-rich aromatics was achieved, selectively affording more than thirty carbosulphenylated products. Both experiments and quantum chemical calculations demonstrated the radical-polar nature of the processes, and that 1,2-dithioethane and thiiranium ions might play the role of intermediates.

Highly efficient Lewis acid catalytic activity of the tritylium ion at the node of a tensile organic framework

Tritylium salts have been used as Lewis acid catalysts in organic synthesis for a long time. In this work, we found that the Lewis acid catalytic activity of tritylium ions at the node of a tensile framework is significantly improved compared to that of the free tritylium salts. The tritylium-based framework, PAF-201 (PAF, porous aromatic framework), was prepared by acidification of a semi-rigid triphenylcarbinol-based parent framework, PAF-200. When PAF-200 was alternately exposed to HCl and NH3 gas, a fast allochroic cycle was observed due to repeated formation of tritylium species. Interestingly, the pseudo-first-order reaction rate of a Povarov model reaction catalyzed by PAF-201 as a Lewis acid was ∼3.7 times and ∼4.7 times as those of tritylium tetrafluoroborate and tri(4-biphenyl)carbonium tetrafluoroborate, respectively. Theoretical calculations revealed that the tritylium ion at the node of PAF-201 has a quasi-planar structure. The transformation of triphenylcarbinol in PAF-200 to tritylium in PAF-201 can make the framework taut, and the rebounding force toward the tetrahedral structure is stored. This is favorable for tritylium to activate the imine substrate along with a deformation of the quasi-plane to tetrahedron. PAF-201 could be easily recycled at least three times without evident loss of catalytic activity. This work presents the catalytic activity of the tritylium ion under stress.

Directing-Group-Assisted Markovnikov-Selective Hydrothiolation of Styrenes with Thiols by Photoredox/Cobalt Catalysis

In contrast with the well-developed radical thiol-ene reaction to access anti-Markovnikov-type products, the research on the catalytic Markovnikov-selective hydrothiolation of alkenes is very restricted. Because of the catalyst poisoning of metal catalysts by organosulfur compounds, limited examples of transition-metal-catalyzed thiol-ene reactions have been reported. However, in this work, a directing-group-assisted hydrothiolation of styrenes with thiols by photoredox/cobalt catalysis is found to proceed smoothly to afford Markovnikov-type sulfides with excellent regioselectivity.

Ionic liquids: "normal" solvents or nanostructured fluids?

Ionic liquids (ILs) are a class of non-conventional solvents, which, for almost two decades, have continued to generate burgeoning interest in different fields of present-day chemical research with few similar precedents. Among the various aspects related to ILs, a topic worthy of in-depth analysis is their influence on organic reactivity and reaction rates. In light of this, the present short review aims to provide an overview of the literature from 2010 to the present day that addresses this issue. In particular, we herein present two main different viewpoints by which the solvent effect of ILs is explained: the first is mainly based on considering the bulk polarity of ILs and linear solvation energy relationships, while the other treats ILs as nanostructured fluids. In both cases, studies dealing with IL mixtures are also covered. Finally, literature addressing the area of supramolecular catalysis "by" or "in" ILs is also reported. This is one of the few reviews covering these specific aspects, aiming to provide a useful framework to guide future research into the effects of ILs on organic reactivity.

Catalysis and regioselectivity in hydrofunctionalization reactions of unsaturated carbon bonds. Part III

The review addresses the possibility of obtaining Markovnikov and anti-Markovnikov isomers in the reactions of unsaturated hydrocarbons with organophosphorus and organosulfur compounds having P–H and S–H bonds using metal salts or complexes as catalysts.

The bibliography includes 247 references.

Establishing the Role of Triflate Anions in H2 Activation by a Cationic Triorganotin(IV) Lewis Acid

Cationic Lewis acids (LAs) are gaining interest as targets for frustrated Lewis pair (FLP)-mediated catalysis. Unlike neutral boranes, which are the most prevalent LAs for FLP hydrogenations, the Lewis acidity of cations can be tuned through modulation of the counteranion; however, detailed studies on such anion effects are currently lacking in the literature. Herein, we present experimental and computational studies which probe the mechanism of H₂ activation using iPr₃SnOTf (1-OTf) in conjunction with a coordinating (quinuclidine; qui) and noncoordinating (2,4,6-collidine; col) base and compare its reactivity with {iPr₃Sn·base}{Al[OC(CF₃)₃]₄} (base = qui/col) systems which lack a coordinating anion to investigate the active species responsible for H₂ activation and hence resolve any mechanistic roles for OTf^– in the iPr₃SnOTf-mediated pathway.

Regioselective molybdenum-catalyzed allylic substitution of tertiary allylic electrophiles: methodology development and applications

The first molybdenum-catalyzed allylic sulfonylation of tertiary allylic electrophiles is described. The method employs a readily accessible catalyst (Mo(CO)₆/2,2′-bipyridine, both are commercially available) and represents the first example of the use of a group 6 transition metal-catalyst for allylic sulfonylation of substituted tertiary allylic electrophiles to form carbon–sulfur bonds. This atom economic and operationally simple methodology is characterized by its relatively mild conditions, wide substrate scope, and excellent regioselectivity profile, thus unlocking a new platform to forge sulfone moieties, even in the context of late-stage functionalization and providing ample opportunities for further derivatization through traditional Suzuki cross-coupling reactions.

The first general example of Mo-catalyzed allylic sulfonylation of tertiary allylic electrophile provides an efficient way to forge sulfone moieties, and providing ample opportunities for further transformation through traditional Suzuki cross-coupling.

Tritylium assisted iodine catalysis for the synthesis of unsymmetrical triarylmethanes

The combined Lewis acid catalytic system, generated from molecular iodine and tritylium tetrafluoroborate effectively catalyzed the Friedel-Crafts (FC) arylation of diarylmethyl sulfides providing an efficient access to various unsymmetrical triarylmethanes. The addition of tritylium and iodine created a more active catalytic system to promote the cleavage of sulfidic C-S bonds.

Catalytic Hydrothiolation: Counterion-Controlled Regioselectivity

In this Article, we expand upon the catalytic hydrothiolation of 1,3-dienes to afford either allylic or homoallylic sulfides with high regiocontrol. Mechanistic studies support a pathway in which regioselectivity is dictated by the choice of counterion associated with the Rh center. Non-coordinating counterions, such as SbF6-, allow for η4-diene coordination to Rh complexes and result in allylic sulfides. In contrast, coordinating counterions, such as Cl-, favor neutral Rh complexes in which the diene binds η2 to afford homoallylic sulfides. We propose mechanisms that rationalize a fractional dependence on thiol for the 1,2-Markovnikov hydrothiolation while accounting for an inverse dependence on thiol in the 3,4- anti-Markovnikov pathway. Through the hydrothiolation of an essential oil (β-farnesene), we achieve the first enantioselective synthesis of (-)-agelasidine A.

A concerted addition mechanism in [Hmim]Br-triggered thiol–ene reactions: a typical “ionic liquid effect” revealed by DFT and experimental studies

The π⁺–π and H-bond interactions between [Hmim]Br and substrates promote a special one-step addition mechanism in thiol–ene reactions.

Phosphorous(v) Lewis acids: water/base tolerant P3-trimethylated trications

The water/base intolerance of the previously reported electrophilic phosphonium cations has been overcome by replacing the labile electron-withdrawing groups generally attached to phosphorus (e.g. -F, -OAr, -CF3) with methyl groups. Tri-phosphorus(v) tricationic species, accessible in one-pot from commercially available materials, are air and water/base tolerant, yet are sufficiently Lewis acidic for catalysis.

The global electrophilicity index as a metric for Lewis acidity

The global electrophilicity index, GEI, is used as a general, quantitative and base-independent metric of Lewis acidity. This parameter has been benchmarked against the established fluoride ion affinity, FIA, for a range of 22 neutral and cationic Lewis acids from across the p-block, including boranes, trityl derivatives, phosphonium cations and sulfoxonium cations. As a demonstration of utility, the GEI is used to catalogue a library of fluoroaryl boranes as it provides a rapid tool for the comparison of a series of Lewis acids featuring peripheral substituent variation.

Iodine-Catalyzed Chemoselective Hydroamination Reaction Using 5-Mercaptotetrazoles Derivatives

Metal-free chemoselective hydroamination of styrene derivatives has been achieved with high chemoselectivity over sulfenylation of 1H-tetrazole-5-thiol using a catalytic amount of iodine. The scope of this methodology has been extended for the hydroamination of α-substituted styrene derivatives. This reaction involves a single-step C-N-bond formation under atom economical process. This eco-friendly method uses readily available and inexpensive iodine in a catalytic amount.

Stable Carbocation Generated via 2,5-Cyclohexadien-1-one Protonation

Protonation of a substituted cyclohexadien-1-one (1) leads to the generation of carbocation [3]⁺, capable of effecting hydride abstraction and oxidation reactions. The molecular structure of [3]⁺ shows it to be structurally similar to [(p-MeO-C₆H₄)Ph₂C]⁺. The ability to easily access [3]⁺ from stable and available precursors, such as 1 and commercially available acids, may allow a wider application of the growing number of trityl-based reactions in organic syntheses.

Aerial dioxygen activation vs. thiol–ene click reaction within a system

By choosing appropriate reaction systems using solvents with additives or solvent free neat conditions, any one of the Markovnikov or anti-Markovnikov selective thiol–ene click (TEC) reactions and the synthesis of β-hydroxysulfides via aerial dioxygen activation could be achieved exclusively in excellent yields.

FLP reactivity of [Ph3C]+ and (o-tolyl)3P and the capture of a Staudinger reaction intermediate

The frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) derived from the trityl cation and (o-tolyl)₃P effects the activation of 1,4-cyclohexadiene and 1-bromo-4-ethynylbenzene and heterolytically cleaves the S-S bond of diphenyl disulfide. The FLP also captures pentafluorophenyl azide as the Staudinger reaction intermediate, a species that reacts with Ph₃SiH to give the silyl analog.

Frustrated Lewis Pair Mediated 1,2-Hydrocarbation of Alkynes

Frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry enables a rare example of alkyne 1,2-hydrocarbation with N-methylacridinium salts as the carbon Lewis acid. This 1,2-hydrocarbation process does not proceed through a concerted mechanism as in alkyne syn-hydroboration, or through an intramolecular 1,3-hydride migration as operates in the only other reported alkyne 1,2-hydrocarbation reaction. Instead, in this study, alkyne 1,2-hydrocarbation proceeds by a novel mechanism involving alkyne dehydrocarbation with a carbon Lewis acid based FLP to form the new C-C bond. Subsequently, intermolecular hydride transfer occurs, with the Lewis acid component of the FLP acting as a hydride shuttle that enables alkyne 1,2-hydrocarbation.

Metal-free pincer ligand chemistry polycationic phosphonium Lewis acids

Oxidation with or without subsequent methylation of the pyridine of 2,6-bis(diphenylphosphine)methyl pyridine affords di- and tricationic phosphonium salts. These species are used as Lewis acid catalysts for the dimerization of 1,1-diphenylethylene, the hydrodefluorination of 1-fluoroadamantane, and the dehydrocoupling of phenol and silane.

Catalytic double hydroarylation of alkynes to 9,9-disubstituted 9,10-dihydroacridine derivatives by an electrophilic phenoxyphosphonium dication

An electrophilic pyridinium-substituted phenoxyphosphonium dicationic salt catalyzes the double hydroarylation of alkynes with diarylamines to give dihydroacridine derivatives.

N-Methyl-Benzothiazolium Salts as Carbon Lewis Acids for Si-H σ-Bond Activation and Catalytic (De)hydrosilylation

N-Me-Benzothiazolium salts are introduced as a new family of Lewis acids able to activate Si-H σ bonds. These carbon-centred Lewis acids were demonstrated to have comparable Lewis acidity towards hydride as found for the triarylboranes widely used in Si-H σ-bond activation. However, they display low Lewis acidity towards hard Lewis bases such as Et3 PO and H2 O in contrast to triarylboranes. The N-Me-benzothiazolium salts are effective catalysts for a range of hydrosilylation and dehydrosilylation reactions. Judicious selection of the C2 aryl substituent in these cations enables tuning of the steric and electronic environment around the electrophilic centre to generate more active catalysts. Finally, related benzoxazolium and benzimidazolium salts were found also to be active for Si-H bond activation and as catalysts for the hydrosilylation of imines.

Lewis acid catalysis: catalytic hydroboration of alkynes initiated by Piers' borane

Terminal and internal alkynes are efficiently hydroborated to (E)-alkenyl pinacol boronic esters with excellent yields and selectivities using Piers' borane, (HB(C₆F₅)₂) as a pre-catalyst for the dissymmetrically gem-diborylated catalyst of the form RCH₂CR′(Bpin)(B(C₆F₅)₂).