Mechanochemistry: A Transformative Technique for the Synthesis of Polar Organometallics from Zero-Valent Metals

The generation and synthetic applications of polar organometallic reagents have traditionally relied on organic solvents. Recently, mechanochemistry has emerged as a conceptually new approach in the field, using mechanical forces for the activation of bulk zero-valent metals and enabling a solvent-free or solvent-minimized synthesis of polar organometallics. This transformative approach brings several advantages over traditional methods, such as eliminating the need for strictly anhydrous conditions and inert atmospheres, removing solvent compatibility issues, and improving the reactivity profiles of polar organometallic reagents, thereby addressing long-standing challenges in the field. This concept article brings into focus the key developments in the mechanochemical generation of polar organometallics (derivatives of zinc, magnesium, calcium, barium, and lithium), highlighting the main advantages of this approach and emphasizing the current challenges.