Stabilization toward air and structure determination of pyrophoric ZnR 2 compounds via supramolecular encapsulation
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Dialkylzincs (ZnR 2 , R = Me or Et) are widely used reagents in organic synthesis and materials chemistry. However, at standard conditions, they exist as pyrophoric liquids reacting violently with water and dioxygen, thus being dangerous and difficult to use in daily laboratory work. Here, we show that these zinc dialkyls can be efficiently stabilized toward air by supramolecular encapsulation within a host system based on heteroleptic alkylzinc complexes. The noncovalent immobilization of ZnR 2 molecules within the resultant crystalline networks allows their structural characterization in a new confined environment. The great potential of the reported assemblies is demonstrated by efficient separation of ZnMe 2 from a mixture of ZnMe 2 /ZnEt 2 . The reported approach paves the way for original supramolecular systems for capture, stabilization, and storage of dangerous reagents.
Source: Science Advances
Language: English
Subfield: Organic Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,500
OpenAlex ID: W4409784380