Carbene Copper Complexes Research Articles

Synthesis and Characterization of a Tetradentate, N-Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(II) Complex and Its Use as a Chan–Evans–Lam Coupling Catalyst

Copper N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are an emerging area of focus for catalysis and other applications. Using a straightforward methodology, a new and highly modifiable tetradentate copper(II) NHC complex was generated and characterized using X-ray crystallography, UV–vis and EPR spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and ESI-MS. This copper(II) NHC complex adopted a distorted 4-coordinate coordination mode and demonstrates a unique absorption spectrum for a copper(II) species, but more interestingly, its redox properties indicate that it can readily access all three common copper oxidation states under atmospheric conditions. The tetradentate copper(II) NHC complex was used to catalytically generate new C–N bonds from a series of phenylboronic acids and amines. Once this CEL methodology was refined, moderate to high yields were achieved using catalytic amounts of the copper(II) complex to couple phenylboronic acids to a series of aniline derivatives. Substituted phenylboronic acids and anilines had minimal impact on the catalytic capabilities of this copper complex; however, there is some indication that steric interactions between catalyst and substrates may have an impact on efficient catalysis. The straightforward synthesis of this framework and the utilization of an inexpensive, first-row transition metal center in this system highlight the usefulness of copper(II) NHCs as catalyst for cross-coupling reactions.

Sulfonate N‐Heterocyclic Carbene–Copper Complexes: Uniquely Effective Catalysts for Enantioselective Synthesis of C−C, C−B, C−H, and C−Si Bonds

A copper-based complex that contains a sulfonate N-heterocyclic carbene ligand was first reported 15 years ago. Since then, these organometallic entities have proven to be uniquely effective in catalyzing an assortment of enantioselective transformations, including allylic substitutions, conjugate additions, proto-boryl additions to alkenes, boryl and silyl substitutions, hydride-allyl additions to alkenyl boronates, and additions of boron-containing allyl moieties to N-H ketimines. In this review article, we detail the shortcomings in the state-of-the-art that fueled the development of this air stable ligand class, members of which can be prepared on multigram scale. For each reaction type, when relevant, the prior art at the time of the advance involving sulfonate NHC-Cu catalysts and/or subsequent key developments are briefly analyzed, and the relevance of the advance to efficient and enantioselective total or formal synthesis of biologically active molecules is underscored. Mechanistic analysis of the structural attributes of sulfonate NHC-Cu catalysts that are responsible for their ability to facilitate transformations with high efficiency as well as regio- and enantioselectivity are detailed. This review contains several formerly undisclosed methodological advances and mechanistic analyses, the latter of which constitute a revision of previously reported proposals.

Sulfonate N‐Heterocyclic Carbene–Copper Complexes: Uniquely Effective Catalysts for Enantioselective Synthesis of C−C, C−B, C−H, and C−Si Bonds

AbstractA copper‐based complex that contains a sulfonate N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand was first reported 15 years ago. Since then, these organometallic entities have proven to be uniquely effective in catalyzing an assortment of enantioselective transformations, including allylic substitutions, conjugate additions, proto‐boryl additions to alkenes, boryl and silyl substitutions, hydride‐allyl additions to alkenyl boronates, and additions of boron‐containing allyl moieties to N‐H ketimines. In this review article, we detail the shortcomings in the state‐of‐the‐art that fueled the development of this air stable ligand class, members of which can be prepared on multigram scale. For each reaction type, when relevant, the prior art at the time of the advance involving sulfonate NHC‐Cu catalysts and/or subsequent key developments are briefly analyzed, and the relevance of the advance to efficient and enantioselective total or formal synthesis of biologically active molecules is underscored. Mechanistic analysis of the structural attributes of sulfonate NHC‐Cu catalysts that are responsible for their ability to facilitate transformations with high efficiency as well as regio‐ and enantioselectivity are detailed. This review contains several formerly undisclosed methodological advances and mechanistic analyses, the latter of which constitute a revision of previously reported proposals.

Correction to “Cu–F Interactions between Cationic Linear N-Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Pyridine Complexes and Their Counterions Greatly Enhance Blue Luminescence Efficiency”

A series of easily accessible linear N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper(I) complexes, bearing pyridine (py) and its derivatives as chromophore ligands, are barely emissive in the single-crystallin...

Catalytic Asymmetric Fluorination of Copper Carbene Complexes: Preparative Advances and a Mechanistic Rationale.

The Cu‐catalyzed reaction of substituted α‐diazoesters with fluoride gives α‐fluoroesters with ee values of up to 95 %, provided that chiral indane‐derived bis(oxazoline) ligands are used that carry bulky benzyl substituents at the bridge and moderately bulky isopropyl groups on their core. The apparently homogeneous solution of CsF in C6F6/hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) is the best reaction medium, but CsF in the biphasic mixture CH2Cl2/HFIP also provides good results. DFT studies suggest that fluoride initially attacks the Cu‐ rather than the C‐atom of the transient donor/acceptor carbene intermediate. This unusual step is followed by 1,2‐fluoride shift; for this migratory insertion to occur, the carbene must rotate about the Cu−C bond to ensure orbital overlap. The directionality of this rotatory movement within the C 2‐symmetric binding site determines the sense of induction. This model is in excellent accord with the absolute configuration of the resulting product as determined by X‐ray diffraction using single crystals of this a priori wax‐like material grown by capillary crystallization.

Highly effective luminescence stemmed from thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) and phosphorescence for the new four-coordinate copper(I) complexes containing N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands

The two four-coordinate N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper(I) complexes, [Cu(Ph-BenIm-methylPy)(POP)]PF6 (1), and [Cu(Ph-Im-methylPy)(POP)]PF6 (2) Ph-BenIm-methylPy = 3-benzyl-1-(6-methyl-pyridin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazolylidene, Ph-Im-methylPy = 3-benzyl-1-(6-methyl-pyridin-2-yl)-1H-imidazolylidene, POP = bis[2-diphenylphosphino]-phenyl)ether) have been synthesized and characterized. Those complexes exhibit blue to green emission with very high quantum yields and long excited-state lifetimes. The experimental results reveal that the origin of emissive state at room temperature occurs from the combination of TADF and phosphorescence in which phosphorescence predominates TADF, and the corresponding emissive mechanisms were discussed. To the best of our knowledge, the combined emissions with high quantum yield close to ca. 100% have not been previously reported in this library of the four-coordinate NHC-Cu(I) complexes.

NHC copper complexes functionalized with sulfoxide and sulfone moieties

A series of N‐heterocyclic copper carbene complexes bearing sulfoxide and sulfone moieties have been prepared. In case of new copper compounds with sulfone ligand, the solid‐state structures were determined using X‐Ray crystallography. Obtained complexes were investigated as catalysts in such transformations as: 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of alkynes and azides (CuAAC), A3 coupling reaction and β‐hydroboration and compared with standard copper catalytic systems.

Cu-F Interactions between Cationic Linear N-Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Pyridine Complexes and Their Counterions Greatly Enhance Blue Luminescence Efficiency.

A series of easily accessible linear N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper(I) complexes, bearing pyridine (py) and its derivatives as chromophore ligands, are barely emissive in the single-crystalline solid state. However, their powders, neat films, and dilute doped films of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA; 1-10%) show very intense blue-to-blue-green photoluminescence with remarkable quantum yields φ of up to 87% and microsecond lifetimes, indicative of triplet states being involved. These luminescence properties are similar to trigonal coordinated NHC copper(I) bis(pyridine) complexes, which we have also isolated and characterized with respect to their structures and photophysics. Our spectroscopic and theoretical studies provide detailed insight into the nature of the luminescence enhancing effect of the linear two-coordinated copper(I) compounds, which is based on the formation of Cu-F interactions between the BF4- anions and [Cu(NHC)(2-R-py)]+ (R = H, Me, Ph) cations. These interactions are absent in the single crystals but lead to a distorted ground-state structure in the precipitated powders or in PMMA films, giving rise to high kr. In addition, we found that our linear copper(I) complexes exhibit mechanochromic luminescence because grinding of the single crystals leads to enhanced emission intensity. In light of the recently reported cation-anion contact-induced mechanochromic luminescence of two-coordinated copper(I) complexes, this study supports the generality of this new mechanism for the design of mechanoresponsive phosphorescent materials.

Carboboration of Alkynes with Cyclodextrin‐Encapsulated N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Copper Complexes

The copper‐catalyzed carboboration of various alkynes was investigated with a modified N‐heterocyclic carbene‐capped α‐cyclodextrin copper(I) complex in which the reactive copper center is deeply encapsulated in the cyclodextrin (CD) cavity. The methylborylation of terminal alkynes was found to give linear (L) (E)‐vinyl boron isomers as the major isomers, as expected from the previously proposed “perpendicular” approach of the alkyne to the Cu–B bond, and methylation of the vinyl boron copper intermediate. Under similar conditions, the intramolecular carboboration reaction with terminal alkynes functionalized by alkyl halides, led to exocyclic vinyl boronate species as the major isomer. However, an endocyclic (Z)‐isomer was also observed in some cases. This isomer was not previously observed and is unexpected considering the “classical” mechanism. The direct generation of boron functionalized (Z)‐alkenes by carboboration of alkynes is unprecedented.

Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Properties of Cationic N-Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Complex

A cationic N-heterocyclic carbene copper(I) complex was prepared and characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, elemental analysis and ESI/TOF mass spectrometry methods. Catalytic performances of the complex were studied in the [3+2] cycloaddition reaction of some azides and alkynes

N-Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes of Copper, Nickel, and Cobalt.

The emergence of N-heterocyclic carbenes as ligands across the Periodic Table had an impact on various aspects of the coordination, organometallic, and catalytic chemistry of the 3d metals, including Cu, Ni, and Co, both from the fundamental viewpoint but also in applications, including catalysis, photophysics, bioorganometallic chemistry, materials, etc. In this review, the emergence, development, and state of the art in these three areas are described in detail.

Ultrasound assisted dispersive solid phase extraction of triazole fungicides by using an N-heterocyclic carbene copper complex supported on ionic liquid-modified graphene oxide as a sorbent.

An ultrasound-assisted method is described for dispersive solid phase extraction of trace levels of triazole fungicides. A sorbent was prepared from an N-heterocyclic carbene copper complex that was supported on ionic liquid-modified graphene oxide. The sorbent was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and elemental mapping. The capability of sorption and extraction is mainly based on complexation with Cu (I) ions. The variables affecting extraction were optimized. Following desorption with ethanol, the fungicides were quantified by corona discharge ion mobility spectrometry. Under optimized conditions (solution pH value: 7.0; amount of sorbent: 10mg; extraction time: 3min; desorption agent: ethanol), the technique provides good linearity (>0.994), repeatability (RSD < 4.1%), low limits of detection (0.18ng.mL-1), excellent preconcentration factors (468-476) and high recoveries from spiked environmental water samples (92-94%). The sorbent can be reused over five cycles without significant loss of its activity. Graphical abstract Schematic presentation of design and synthesis of the N-heterocyclic carbene copper complex supported on ionic liquid-modified graphene oxide as a sorbent for triazole fungicides and its application in ultrasound-assisted dispersive solid phase extraction with ion mobility spectrometric detection.

Silylated Ge9 Clusters as New Ligands for Cyclic (Alkyl)amino and Mesoionic Carbene Copper Complexes.

The coordination of Ge9 Zintl clusters at (carbene)CuI moieties is explored, and the complexes [(CAAC)Cu]2[η3-Ge9{Si(TMS)3}2] (1), (CAAC)Cu[η3-Ge9{Si(TMS)3}3] (2), and (MIC)Cu[η3-Ge9{Si(TMS)3}3] (3) are compared with their known N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) derivatives (A and B), where CAAC = cyclic (alkyl)amino carbene, MIC = mesoionic carbene, and TMS = trimethylsilane. In analogy to the NHC derivatives, the synthesis of 1-3 proceeds by single-step reactions of (CAAC)CuCl or (MIC)CuCl with the [Ge9R2]2- and [Ge9R3]- [R = Si(TMS)3] cluster ligands, respectively, and yields complexes of (carbene)CuI (carbene = CAAC, MIC) moieties exhibiting η3-coordination modes of the Ge9 deltahedron to the Cu atom. In 1, [Ge9R2]2- acts as a η3-bridging unit for two (CAAC)CuI moieties, and 2 and 3 feature single (carbene)CuI (CAAC and MIC) fragments η3-connected to [Ge9R3]- units. Analysis of the bond lengths in comparison with known examples shows a bond expansion within the coordinated Ge3 triangular faces for all (carbene)CuIGe9 complexes (carbene = NHC, MIC, CAAC). All compounds are characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffractometry, NMR spectroscopy [1H, 13C{1H}, and 29Si{1H}], electrospray ionization mass spectometry, elemental analysis (C, H, and N), and for the first time also by IR and Raman investigations (for 2 and 3). The new complexes add to the known NHC derivatives and extend the exploration of Ge9 clusters with carbene ligands at CuI atoms.

Copper-Catalyzed Propargylic Reduction with Diisobutylaluminum Hydride.

A mild and efficient method for the synthesis of allenes through selective copper-catalyzed hydride addition to propargylic chlorides using commercially available diisobutylaluminum hydride has been developed. This transformation, which is promoted by a readily accessible N-heterocyclic carbene-copper complex, provides a wide range of new and versatile functionalized allenes in good to excellent yields with high regio- and stereoselectivities.

N-Heterocyclic carbene–copper complex supported on ionic liquid-modified graphene oxide: versatile catalyst for synthesis of (i) 1,2,3-triazole and (ii) propargylamine derivatives

A N-heterocyclic carbene–copper complex grafted on graphene oxide with an ionic liquid framework was prepared. The synthesis of (i) 1,2,3-triazole derivatives by ‘Click reaction’ and (ii) propargylamine derivatives by ‘A3 coupling reaction’ in aqueous media by this new catalyst were all successfully accomplished. The catalyst is characterized using infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and elemental analysis. The catalyst is reused in the ten reaction cycles without considerable loss of catalytic activity.

Heterogeneous azide–alkyne cycloaddition in the presence of a copper catalyst supported on an ionic liquid polymer/silica hybrid material

Heterogeneous copper catalysts were prepared by the deposition of CuI on a hybrid material consisting of silica and a polymer with imidazolium moieties. The solid materials were characterised using solid‐phase NMR, Fourier transform infrared, Raman and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurements. The formation of copper–carbene complexes was proved from Raman spectra and the results were supported by density functional theory calculations. The catalyst could be recycled efficiently with low loss of copper. Metal leaching was proved to be facilitated by the use of conditions typical for a homogeneous system (the presence of a polar solvent or the addition of a tertiary amine). Besides simple model reactions, the best catalyst was found to be suitable for the synthesis of triazoles of more elaborate structure, such as ferrocene or steroid derivatives.

NHC-copper complexes immobilized on magnetic nanoparticles: Synthesis and catalytic activity in the CuAAC reactions

A series of N-heterocyclic carbene copper(I) and rare copper(II) complexes (NHCCuCl or NHCCuCl2) were covalently immobilized directly on the surface of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for the first time. The physicochemical properties were investigated by a broad range of techniques, including SEM and TEM microscopy, and TG analysis. The supported complexes exhibited excellent activity in the Huisgen cycloaddition with in situ generated azides. Unexpectedly, a direct comparison of NHCCuCl and NHCCuCl2 complexes anchored to the magnetic nanoparticles confirmed the higher activity of the latter for the formation of 1,2,3-triazoles, also under ascorbate-free conditions.

Correction: Highly photoluminescent copper carbene complexes based on prompt rather than delayed fluorescence.

Correction for ‘Highly photoluminescent copper carbene complexes based on prompt rather than delayed fluorescence’ by Alexander S. Romanov et al., Chem. Commun., 2016, 52, 6379–6382.

Role of the Bridging Group in Bis-Pyridyl Ligands: Enhancing Both the Photo- and Electroluminescent Features of Cationic (IPr)CuI Complexes.

We report on the benefits of changing the bridging group X of bis-pyridyl ligands, that is, Py-X-Py where X is NH, CH2 , C(CH3 )2 , or PPh, on the photo- and electroluminescent properties of a new family of luminescent cationic H-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper(I) complexes. A joint experimental and theoretical study demonstrates that the bridging group affects the molecular conformation from a planar-like structure (X is NH and CH2 ) to a boat-like structure (X is C(CH3 )2 and PPh), leading to i) four-fold enhancement of the photoluminescence quantum yield (ϕem ) without affecting the thermally activated delayed fluorescence mechanism, and ii) one order of magnitude reduction of the ionic conductivity (σ) of thin films. This leads to an overall enhancement of the device efficacy and luminance owing to the increased ϕem and the use of low applied driving currents.

Synthesis, photophysical properties, and computational studies of four-coordinate copper(I) complexes based on benzimidazolylidene N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands bearing aryl substituents

Three four-coordinate N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper(I) complexes, [Cu(Ph-BenIm-Py)(POP)]PF6 (1), [Cu(Naph-BenIm-Py)(POP)]PF6 (2), and [Cu(Anthr-BenIm-Py)(POP)]PF6 (3) (Ph-BenIm-Py = 3-benzyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazolylidene, Naph-BenIm-Py = 3-(naphthalen-2-yl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H- benzimidazolylidene, Anthr-BenIm-Py = 3-(anthracen-9-yl)-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazolylidene, and POP = bis[2-diphenylphosphino]-phenyl)ether) have been synthesized and characterized. The different aryl substituents (phenyl, naphthyl, and anthracyl groups) were introduced into NHC ligands and the corresponding photophysical properties of the complexes were systematically investigated. The absorption spectra of all NHCCu(I) complexes show a characteristic feature of metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) in the lower-energy region. Complex 1 exhibited good photoluminescence (PL) properties companying with the high quantum yields and long excited-state lifetimes, whereas 2 and 3 with naphthyl and anthracyl groups show the low PL efficiency caused by the strong π-π stacking interactions. Density functional theory (DFT) and time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations were employed to rationalize the photophysical properties of the NHCCu(I) complexes.