Divergent Fe-Mediated C-H Activation Paths Driven by Alkali Cations

Journal article

The association of the ferrous complex FeIICl2(dmpe)2 (1) with alkali bases M(hmds) (M = Li, Na, K) proves to be an efficient platform for the activation of Ar-H bonds. Two mechanisms can be observed, leading to either Ar-FeII species by deprotonative ferration or hydrido species Ar-FeII-H by oxidative addition of transient Fe0(dmpe)2 generated by reduction of 1. Importantly, the nature of the alkali cation in M(hmds) has a strong influence on the preferred path. Starting from the same iron precursor, diverse catalytic applications can be explored by a simple modulation of the MI cation. Possible strategies enabling cross-coupling using arenes as pro-nucleophiles, reductive dehydrocoupling, or deuteration of B-H bonds are discussed.

Authors: Wowk, V; Bauer, AK; Radovic, A; Chamoreau, L; Neidig, ML

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: American Chemical Society
• Journal: JACS Au
• Volume: 4
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 512-524
• Publication date: 2024-01-19
• DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00649
• ISSN: 2691-3704
• Pmid: 38425937
• Language: English