Zinc-Catalyzed Organic Synthesis: C-C, C-N, C-O Bond Formation Reactions

Zinc is the 24th most abundant element in the Earths crust. Since the discovery of pure zinc metal in the 18th century, the main application of zinc metal is as materials. Because zinc salts are abundant, cheap, non-toxic, and exhibit environmentally benign properties, organic chemists have been interested in using zinc salts as catalysts in organic synthesis during the last three decades. Within this review, we have summarized the progress on applications of zinc salts in organic reactions. Our the target is to emphasize the special properties of zinc catalysts, and further promote the interest of organic chemists.