Room temperature synthesis of α,β-unsaturated nitriles by manganese-catalysed base-free coupling of α-saturated nitriles with aldehydes
Abstract
CN with different aldehydes in one-step room temperature syntheses. Experimental and computational data demonstrate that the catalytic reaction involves reversible binding of the nitrile substrate across the metal-ligand framework of the pincer complex, leading to ketimido and enamido complexes as intermediates. The enamido species functions as a carbon nucleophile that forms a C-C bond with an aldehyde to generate a β-hydroxynitrile intermediate, which is subsequently dehydrated into the vinyl nitrile product.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Catalytic Cross-Coupling Reactions
Organometallic Complex Synthesis and Catalysis
Asymmetric Synthesis and Catalysis
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Chemical Science
- Volume
- 17
- Issue
- 11
- Pages
- 5673–5683
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN