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Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Imine Metathesis by Silica-Supported Catalysts Using the Methodology of Surface Organometallic Chemistry
Published on: October 18, 2019
Borane-catalyzed room-temperature hydrosilylation of alkenes/alkynes on silicon nanocrystal surfaces
Tapas K Purkait1, Muhammad Iqbal, Maike H Wahl
1Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta , 11227 Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, Alberta Canada T6G 2G2.
Abstract:
Room-temperature borane-catalyzed functionalization of hydride-terminated silicon nanocrystals (H-SiNCs) with alkenes/alkynes is reported. This new methodology affords formation of alkyl and alkynyl surface monolayers of varied chain lengths (i.e., C5-C12). The present study also indicates alkynes react more readily with H-SiNC surfaces than equivalent alkenes. Unlike other toxic transition-metal catalysts, borane or related byproducts can be readily removed from the functionalized SiNCs. The new method affords stable luminescent alkyl/alkenyl-functionalized SiNCs.
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