Allyl Compounds of Main Group Metals

Allyl compounds of main group metals are important reagents in organic and organometallic synthesis, polymerization catalysis, and material science. However, some of these compounds have never been isolated and thus remained ill-defined. Others have not been investigated to date.

This work describes the preparation, isolation, and characterization of allyl compounds of main group metals (Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Al, Ga, Bi). Detailed analysis of the coordination chemistry of these compounds in solution and in the solid state established the basis for understanding structure-reactivity-relationships. In addition to neutral compounds, cationic, anionic, and dianionic species were also investigated revealing strikingly different reactivities.

Unique reactivity patterns were discovered in oxidatively induced coupling reactions, pyridine dearomatization, and metallo-ene-reactions. Allyl compounds of main group metals were established as novel initiators for anionic and controlled radical polymerization of olefins.