Facile access to Benzoin condensation of Aromatic aldehydes under metal free conditions

Abstract:

Cooperative C–C bond activation reactions with metal-carbene complexes are reported. The complexes show surprisingly different reactivities towards the commonly employed metal ligand cooperation. Functionalized organic spacers are known as the most selective metal free ligands for catalytic reactions. The highest yields were obtained with N,N′-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)imidazolium chloride (IMes.hcl) and potassium tert-butoxide, these catalysts are highly active towards Benzoin condensation.