Synthesis of alkenes by conformationally directed transition metal-free couplings to sp2 carbon

烯烃（药物、天然产物、香料和材料合成单体的关键成分）的合成由于过渡金属促进偶联的发现而发生了革命性的变化。然而，过渡金属通常价格昂贵，并受到供应链波动的影响，因此替代烯烃的直接途径是有价值的。在这个项目中，我们将探索在sp2杂化碳上使用构象定向取代作为一种替代，实际上简单和可持续的方法来合成烯烃。我们的目标是开发合成方法，避免使用卤素和过渡金属，并利用机械上不寻常的反应性固有的构象限制功能，如酰胺和脲。该项目的结果将对EPSRC的物理科学研究领域产生影响。

The synthesis of alkenes (key components of drugs, natural products, fragrances and monomers for materials synthesis) was revolutionised by the discovery of transition-metal promoted couplings. However, transition metals are generally expensive and suffer from supply chain volatility, so alternative direct routes to alkenes are of value. In this project we will explore the use of conformationally directed substitutions at sp2 hybridised carbons as an alternative, practically simple and sustainable approach to the synthesis of alkenes. We aim to develop synthetic methods that avoid the use of halogens and transition metals, and which exploit mechanistically unusual reactivity inherent in conformationally restricted functions such as amides and ureas. The outcome of the project will have an impact on the EPSRC research area of physical sciences.