Chapter 13 - Synthesis of Organometallic Compounds

Abstract

Organometallic compounds refer to those containing at least one metal-carbon bond. They are in an interdisciplinary area between inorganic and organic chemistry. Studies of organometallic compounds have significantly advanced the understanding of chemical bonding, as these complexes show unique bonds and structures. Organometallic compounds have played a critical role in catalysis and organic synthesis, often leading to more efficient use of reagents, higher yields of products, and less use of energy. Organometallic compounds have also been used as precursors in the preparation of nanomaterials and microelectronic materials such as thin films in integrated circuits. Species containing M-C bonds have been found in biology as well. The vitamin B12 coenzyme contains a Co-C bond. Synthesis of M-C containing compounds plays a central role in the field of organometallic chemistry. Both the metals and ligands are diverse. The former include those of main group, transition metals, and lanthanide and actinide elements. The latter range from CO to multidentate organic molecules/groups. Since organometallic compounds contain metals and ligands, the synthetic methods are in general grouped into two types: reactions between metal species and preformed ligands or ligand precursors; and reactions of ligands in organometallic compounds yielding new ligands. The former is used in the preparation of Grignard reagents and organolithium reagents.