A method for the synthesis of nickel(0) bis(carbene) complexes

Area of Science:

• Organometallic Chemistry
• Coordination Chemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are versatile ligands in organometallic chemistry.
• Nickel complexes with NHC ligands are of interest due to their catalytic potential.
• Efficient synthesis methods for these complexes are crucial for further research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a new, efficient synthetic route to Ni(NHC)2 complexes.
• To explore the scope of the new method with various NHC ligands.
• To characterize reaction intermediates and final products.

Main Methods:

• Reaction of pre-formed or in situ generated NHCs with Ni(CH3)2(tmed).
• Use of various NHC ligands including IMes, IPri, SIPr(i), and SIBu(t).
• Isolation and structural characterization of intermediates and products, including X-ray crystallography.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of Ni(NHC)2 complexes in moderate to good yields.
• Identification of a novel synthetic pathway.
• Isolation and full structural characterization of the intermediate Ni[I(Me2)Pr(i)]2(CH3)2 complex.

Conclusions:

• The new method provides a reliable route to Ni(NHC)2 complexes.
• The study expands the synthetic toolkit for organonickel compounds.
• Structural insights into reaction intermediates aid in understanding the reaction mechanism.