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Updated: May 18, 2026

Characterizing Lewis Pairs Using Titration Coupled with In Situ Infrared Spectroscopy
Published on: February 20, 2020
Cation affinity numbers of Lewis bases.
Christoph Lindner1, Raman Tandon, Boris Maryasin
1Department of Chemistry, Ludwigs-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandstr. 5-13, D-81377 München, Germany.
This study quantifies Lewis base affinities towards various model cations, including methyl, benzhydryl, trityl, and acetyl cations. Findings provide insights into electrophile-substrate interactions relevant to catalysis and acyl-transfer reactions.
Area of Science:
- Computational Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Understanding Lewis base-cation interactions is crucial for catalysis.
- Model electrophiles are needed to study reaction mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- Quantify Lewis base affinities towards model cations.
- Investigate electrophile-substrate interactions in synthetic procedures.
- Explore Lewis base reactivity with both cationic and neutral electrophiles.
Main Methods:
- Utilized selected theoretical methods for quantitative analysis.
- Examined a diverse range of Lewis bases.
- Included model cations like methyl, benzhydryl, trityl, and acetyl cations.
Main Results:
- Quantified affinities of Lewis bases towards various model cations.
- Provided data for methyl, benzhydryl, trityl, and acetyl cations.
- Complemented data with Lewis-base addition to Michael acceptors.
Conclusions:
- Established a quantitative understanding of Lewis base affinities.
- Results are applicable to Lewis base-catalyzed reactions and acyl-transfer.
- The study provides a foundation for designing new catalytic systems.
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