Continuous Flow Synthesis of NHC-Coinage Metal Amido and Thiolato Complexes: A Mechanism-based Process Development

Abstract

The first continuous flow syntheses of amido and thiolato families are reported. Our studies focused on [M(NHC)(Cbz)] (Cbz=carbazolyl) and [M(NHC)(SPh)] (NHC=N-heterocyclic carbene) as general proof-of-concepts and has led to a simple protocol with unprecedented short reaction times and high product yields. The scope of supporting ligands and substrates permits to assess the versatility of the process and a one-pot synthesis starting from the imidazolium salt, metal source and carbazole substrate highlights the simplicity and sustainability of this operating design. The process was made possible through a detailed mechanistic understanding of the underlying reaction chemistry.