Highly dispersed Ni2P nanoparticles on N,P-codoped carbon for efficient cross-dehydrogenative coupling to access alkynyl thioethers

An ultrafine Ni2P (a metal-rich interstitial phosphide compound) nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution homogeneously dispersed on N,P-codoped carbon was developed for efficient synthesis of alkynyl thioethers via base- and ligand-free cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) of terminal alkynes and thiols using atmospheric air as the oxidant under mild conditions. A remarkable catalytic performance with good functional group compatibility, broad substrate scope and high stability is accomplished. Pyridinic N atoms are identified as basic sites for facilitating the activation of terminal alkynes via hydrogen bonding interactions and play a key role in the success of this base- and ligand-free CDC reaction.