Amphiphilic Sugar Metal Carbenes: From Fischer Type to N-Heterocyclic Carbenes (NHCs)

Abstract

The work presented herein describes in detail in four parts the synthesis of a new class of amphiphilic N-heterocyclic carbene complexes. <br /> The formal replacement of a Fischer type carbene, present in the structure on which the work is based, by a NHC moiety proved to be difficult. The problem could be solved by using different spacers. A complete new family of amphiphilic systems bearing NHC chromium carbenes could be accessed, using a protocol based on silver oxide. In an attempt to combine the known Fischer carbene chemistry that has led to the gelation of solvents and of NHC chemistry some new complexes incorporating these two types of carbenes could be synthesised. Finally, phenylene spacered complexes were synthesised and their gelation abilities have been investigated systematically.<br /> A structure that could gelate solvents and at the same time is versatile enough to be used in catalytical palladium chemistry is within reach.