Selective dimerization of α-methylstyrene by tunable bis(catecholato)germane Lewis acid catalysts

The synthesis of a variety of bis(catecholato)germanes is reported. The Lewis acidity of the bis(catecholato)germanes was assessed using the experimental Gutmann-Beckett method and computational FIA and GEI methods. The oligomerization of alkenes using bis(catecholato)germanes demonstrates the use of these complexes in catalysis. The use of donor additives in the dimerization of alpha-methylstyrene resulted in selectivity control comparable to transition metal catalyst systems.

Automated summary

This study reports the synthesis of various bis(catecholato)germanes and their application in catalysis. The Lewis acidity of these compounds was evaluated using experimental and computational methods, and the addition of donor additives in the dimerization reaction showed comparable selectivity control to transition metal catalyst systems.