Low-Coordinate Germanium and Tin Compounds for Small Molecule Activation and Catalysis

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Recent years showed significant interest to the field of main group element catalysis, which is considered as a sustainable alternative to the classical transition metal catalyzed transformations. The knowledge about activation of small molecules at a given metal center and its effective synthetic exploration are the prerequisites for the development of novel catalytic processes. The most recent studies demonstrated, that among various main group systems those based on low-coordinate group 14 metals can undergo not only transition metal-like reactions but also exhibit characteristic reactivity which may serve as a basis for novel catalytic transformations. Recently, we found that N-heterocyclic imine (NHI) supported low-coordinate silicon compounds show unique reactivity and are capable to activate sigma- and pi-bonds of small molecules under very mild reaction conditions. At this point, the transfer of this knowledge to heavier group 14 analogues with higher metallic character is very actual and important. The main objective of this project is to study novel rationally designed low-coordinate NHI stabilized germanium and tin compounds, such as tetrylenes, heavier alkene- and homo- and heteronuclear alkyne analogues, in small molecule activation reactions and their application in catalysis. As a well-structured approach based on our previous research experience and results, this study will have an essential impact on fundamental understanding of catalytic transformations at low-coordinate main group metal centers and prerequisites of catalytic activity. The work programme is divided into two main parts. Part A describes synthetic approaches to the target NHI-supported germanium and tin compounds. Part B includes detail description of the reactivity studies and practical development of catalytic transformations. The three-year research project is designed for two PhD students: one will work on germanium and another on tin chemistry.