This comprehensive reference and handbook covers in depth all major aspects of the use of N-heterocyclic carbene-complexes in organic synthesis: from the theoretical background to characterization, and from cross-coupling reactions to olefin metathesis. Edited by a leader and experienced scientist in the field of homogeneous catalysis and use of NHCs, this is an essential tool for every academic and industrial synthetic chemist.

Over the last fifteen years, N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have mostly been used as ancillary ligands for the preparation of transition metal-based catalysts. Compared to phosphorus-containing ligands, NHCs tend to bind more strongly to metal centres, avoiding the necessity for the use of excess ligand in catalytic reactions. The corresponding complexes are often less sensitive to air and moisture, and have proven remarkably resistant to oxidation. Recent developments in catalysis applications have been facilitated by the availability of carbenes stable enough to be bottled, particularly for their use as organocatalysts. This book shows how N-heterocyclic carbenes can be useful in various fields of chemistry and not merely laboratory curiosities or simple phosphine mimics. NHCs are best known for their contribution to ruthenium and palladium-catalysed reactions but the scope of this book is much broader. The synthesis of NHC ligands and their corresponding metal complexes are covered in depth. Moreover, the biological activity of NHC-containing complexes, as well as an overview of their theoretical aspects are included. Such metal species are further examined, not only in terms of their catalytic applications, but also of their stereoelectronic parameters and reactivity/stability. Finally, special attention is given to the hot topic of organocatalysis. The book will be of interest to postgraduates, academic researchers and those working in industry.

This first handbook to focus solely on the application of N-heterocyclic carbenes in synthesis covers metathesis, organocatalysis, oxidation and asymmetric reactions, along with experimental procedures. Written by leading international experts this is a valuable and practical source for every organic chemist.

N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have played a dominant role in organometallic chemistry for decades and revolutionized the field of homogenous catalysis. NHCs have been thoroughly studied, both experimentally and theoretically, and have shown unique reactivity towards transition metals, chalcogens, azides and pnictogens. This thesis is aimed at utilizing the unique reactivity of N-heterocyclic carbenes to develop novel, robust catalysts to mediate organic transformations. The multi-faceted work within this thesis explores the use of NHCs as ancillary ligands on early and late transition metals as potential catalysts for olefin polymerization and ring-closing metathesis, respectively. This work also includes exploring the synthesis and coordination of ancillary ligands derived from the unique reactivity of NHCs towards azides, chalcogens and pnictinidenes. The reactivity of a novel aryl-substituted acyclic imino-N-heterocyclic carbene to early transition metals, cyclooctasulfur and Grubbs-type ruthenium benzylidene complexes was explored. The reactivity of imidazol-2-imide towards Grubbs-type ruthenium benzylidene complexes and the synthesis and coordination of a novel group of ligands bearing an imidazol-2-imine scaffold were also explored. Lastly, this work will include the reactivity of IMes=PPh to Grubbs-type ruthenium benzylidene complexes.

Copper in N-Heterocyclic Chemistry provides an overview of copper-catalyzed synthesis and functionalization of N-heterocyclic compounds, covering all recent developments in a way that is ideal for researchers and students working in the area of synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry. The book explores N-heterocyclic compounds as unique structural units in the development of natural products and pharmaceuticals, along with the remarkable progress made in the area of high atom economic strategies, and more recently, copper-catalyzed C-H activation and its applications in organic synthesis. Readers will find troubleshooting protocols, as well as the advantages and limitations of each method discussed. As copper catalysts show versatile chemical reactivity in many aspects, including their oxidation states 0–3 are accessible and their ability to facilitate bond formations due to their ability to serve as Lewis acids, oxidizing agents and catalysts, this book is an ideal resource on the topics explored. - Discusses novel synthetic methods developed over the past decade for copper-catalyzed synthesis of N-heterocyclic compounds - Covers the most recent methodologies adapted in synthetic chemistry for applications in natural products and pharmaceuticals - Includes troubleshooting protocols, as well as the advantages and limitations of each method discussed in detail

In this book leading experts have surveyed major areas of application of NHC metal complexes in catalysis. The authors have placed a special focus on nickel- and palladium-catalyzed reactions, on applications in metathesis reactions, on oxidation reactions and on the use of chiral NHC-based catalysts. This compilation is rounded out by an introductory chapter and a chapter dealing with synthetic routes to NHC metal complexes.

Summarizing the emerging field of N-heterocyclic carbenes used in organocatalysis, this is an excellent overview of the synthesis and applications of NHCs focusing on carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond formation. Alongside comprehensive coverage of the synthesis, characteristics and applications, this handbook and ready reference also includes chapters on NHCs for polymerization reactions and natural product synthesis.

The Organometallic Chemistry of N-heterocyclic Carbenes describes various aspects of N-heterocyclic Carbenes (NHCs) and their transition metal complexes at an entry level suitable for advanced undergraduate students and above. The book starts with a historical overview on the quest for carbenes and their complexes. Subsequently, unique properties, reactivities and nomenclature of the four classical NHCs derived from imidazoline, imidazole, benzimidazole and 1,2,4-triazole are elaborated. General and historically relevant synthetic aspects for NHCs, their precursors and complexes are then explained. The book continues with coverage on the preparation and characteristics of selected NHC complexes containing the most common metals in this area, i.e. Ni, Pd, Pt, Ag, Cu, Au, Ru, Rh and Ir. The book concludes with an overview and outlook on the development of various non-classical NHCs beyond the four classical types. Topics covered include: Stabilization, dimerization and decomposition of NHCs Stereoelectronic properties of NHCs and their evaluation Diversity of NHCs Isomers of NHC complexes and their identification NMR spectroscopic signatures of NHC complexes normal, abnormal and mesoionic NHCs The Organometallic Chemistry of N-heterocyclic Carbenes is an essential resource for all students and researchers interested in this increasingly important and popular field of research.