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Published on: March 24, 2018
Unprecedented solvent induced inter-conversion between monomeric and dimeric silylene-zinc iodide adducts
Sandeep Yadav1, Ekta Sangtani, Diksha Dhawan
1Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411008, India. ss.sen@ncl.res.in.
This study reveals a novel silylene-transition metal Lewis acid reaction, yielding both monomeric and dimeric adducts. Solvent choice dictates adduct formation and allows for spontaneous inter-conversion between forms.
Area of Science:
- Organosilicon Chemistry
- Coordination Chemistry
- Lewis Acid-Base Interactions
Background:
- Silylenes typically form monomeric or dimeric adducts with transition metal Lewis acids.
- The specific adduct formed often depends on reaction conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reaction of a specific silylene with zinc iodide (ZnI2).
- To explore the influence of solvent on adduct formation and stability.
- To characterize the resulting monomeric and dimeric adducts.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of silylene and its reaction with ZnI2.
- Crystallization experiments using tetrahydrofuran (THF) and acetonitrile.
- Structural authentication via X-ray crystallography.
- Quantum chemical calculations to analyze the Si-Zn bond.
Main Results:
- The silylene formed both monomeric (1) and dimeric (2) adducts with ZnI2.
- Adduct formation was controlled by the solvent: THF favored monomer 1, acetonitrile favored dimer 2.
- Structural analysis confirmed the distinct monomeric and dimeric structures.
- Quantum chemical calculations provided insights into the Si-Zn bonding.
Conclusions:
- Solvent-dependent formation of monomeric and dimeric silylene-ZnI2 adducts is demonstrated.
- A unique solvent-induced spontaneous inter-conversion between the monomeric and dimeric adducts was observed.
- This study expands the known reactivity patterns of silylenes with transition metal Lewis acids.
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