Synthesis of rhodium complexes derived from benzimidazolin-2-ylidene ligands and first used for the addition of arylboron to benzonitriles

Abstract

Benzimidazolium salts and their new rhodium complexes ([RH(COD)(NHC)Cl]) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, H-1 NMR, C-13 NMR, and IR spectroscopy. The addition of arylboron to benzonitriles in the presence of a catalytic amount of rhodium NHC complexes was examined. Corresponding carbonyl compounds were obtained in good yields. This method allows for the preparation of a wide variety of carbonyl compounds in moderate to excellent yields and displays a high level of activity for the addition of arylboron to nitriles. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.