Synthetic and structural studies of copper, gold and palladium heterocyclic carbene complexes

Abstract

This thesis consists of three parts:

The first part describes the synthesis and novel variable coordination modes of copper(I) N,S-heterocyclic carbene (NSHC) complexes. Among them, the first native heterocyclic bridging carbene complex was isolated. Based on the study of its electronic and structural properties, carbene ligand migration in this bridging carbene complex was proposed and supported by DFT calculation. The catalytic activities of these complexes were investigated in the cycloaddition of azides and alkynes reactions.

The second part describes the preparation of a series of novel Au(I)/(III)-NSHC complexes via a new method. This study suggested that cyclometallated Au(III) heterocyclic carbenes can be conveniently prepared, isolated and are significantly more stable than their Au(I)-NSHC precursor. Other Au(III) complexes with mono- or di-NSHC also have been prepared via oxidation by halogen. Their catalytic activities towards hydration of phenylacetylene were studied.

The last part describes the synthesis and characterization of solvento complexes of palladium(I/II) with or without N-heterocyclic carbene ligation. Their catalytic activities towards C-C cross-coupling reaction were evaluated.