Theoretical Design of a Catalyst with Both High Activity and Selectivity in C-H Borylation

J Org Chem. 2021 Dec 3;86(23):16858-16866. doi: 10.1021/acs.joc.1c02070. Epub 2021 Nov 2.

Abstract

Improving both the activity and selectivity of the C-H borylation reaction is currently a hot research topic but also a challenge. In this regard, we suggest a multistrategy combining directing group, coordination unsaturated metal center, and cationic character. Based on Reek's catalyst, we designed a new unsaturated cationic catalyst (1) featuring a directing group for C-H borylation. The calculated free energy barrier of C-H activation is only 7.2 kcal/mol, indicating that the cationic catalyst has higher activity than the original neutral catalyst in this process. Moreover, the comparison suggests that the ortho-C-H borylation pathway is more favorable than the meta and para pathways. The catalyst deconstructions are further performed and prove that the ortho-selectivity is attributed to hydrogen-bonding interactions between the directing group and the substrate, although the ortho site is sterically and electronically unfavorable.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis*
  • Hydrogen Bonding