Synthesis and Catalytic Activity of Dicationic Zn Complexes

Hydrogenation and hydroelementation of C=E bonds (E = O, N, C) are among the most important organic reactions. Most catalytic methods involve the use of noble transition metal-based catalysts, which are expensive, scarce or toxic. Hence, the focus of today’s research is their replacement by cheaper and less toxic transition metal-free catalysts. The use of zinc in this perspective is of a great interest, because of its abundance, biological relevance and distinct abilities. Here we report the synthesis of dicationic Zn complexes embedded in tri and tetra dentate ligands, and their use in catalysis. By changing the ligand`s strategic centers we will able to fine-tune the properties of zinc center i.e. its Lewis acidity, which will have a direct impact on the reactivity and catalytic activity of these new Zn-based compounds.