Mechanistic Complexity in Organo–SOMO Activation

Abstract

Wet chemistry: Organo-SOMO activation is an intricate process. The catalyst is deactivated in the absence of H2O and its concentration is maintained with 2 equivalents of H2O. The kinetic role of ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) is masked by phase transfer and its limited solubility is enhanced by added H2O. Mechanistic studies show that careful addition of H2O to dried reagents greatly enhances reaction. TMS=trimethylsilyl.