Cyclic (Alkyl)(amino)carbenes: Synthesis of Iminium Precursors and Structural Properties

Using readily available preallylated aldehydes, we report a simple and divergent synthesis of cyclic (alkyl)(amino)-carbene (CAAC) iminium precursors. Using a combination of crystallographic data and steric maps, we further elaborate on the specific steric properties of CAAC ligands with respect to state-of-the-art phosphene and carbene ligands.

Automated summary

In this study, a simple and versatile method for synthesizing cyclic (alkyl)(amino)-carbene (CAAC) iminium precursors using readily available preallylated aldehydes is reported. The specific steric properties of CAAC ligands in comparison to state-of-the-art phosphene and carbene ligands are further elaborated using crystallographic data and steric maps.