Directed C–H activation with iron carbene complexes

Abstract

The reactivity of PC_carbeneP iron carbenes, [{PC(sp²)P}Fe(L)(N₂)] (1-L, L = NC^tBu, PMe₃), was investigated toward imines, ketones, diazenes, 2-vinylpyridine, and 8-methylquinoline, and revealed the directed activation of aryl, vinyl, or benzyl C–H bonds by 1,2-addition across the iron-carbene bond. Our results support a syn 1,2-addition of these bonds, suggesting a metal–ligand cooperative process for the activation of these substrates. These findings highlight the potential of iron-carbene complexes in C–H activation processes, and deviate from the traditional mechanisms employed for iron promoted C–H activations.