Functional-group tolerance in frustrated lewis pairs: hydrogenation of nitroolefins and acrylates

Abstract

Weak Lewis acid for high nucleophilicity: Hydridoborate derived from B(2,6-F2C6H3)3 shows significant hydride character. Solid-state and solution structure analysis revealed a dihydrogen-bonded aggregate. The new frustrated Lewis pair was applied in the hydrogenation of nitroolefins and acrylates (see scheme; EWG=electron- withdrawing group). The decreased Lewis acidity provides higher reactivity and functional-group tolerance. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.