Optimization of Sodium-Catalyzed Si–N Bond Formation Through a Comparative Study of Group 1 Alkoxides
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: A systematic comparison of group 1 tert-amylate (OtAmyl) salts as precatalysts for Si–N heterodehydrocoupling is reported with a focus on NatOAmyl. The heavier alkali metals provide good to excellent conversions with all substrates screened, including tertiary silanes and secondary amines, which are challenging substrates in prior literature reports. Although the activity of NatOAmyl is limited in comparison to rubidium and cesium congeners, this can be improved with judicious solvent choice, particularly DMSO. The overall findings support that a single inexpensive and sustainable catalyst can be primarily used for Si–N bond formation; however, if the substrates are particularly challenging, CstOAmyl will provide high conversion. This analysis provides a systematic approach for pragmatic catalysts to engage in bond formation with abundant silicon and nitrogen that serves synthesis and materials chemistry.
Source: ChemRxiv
Institutions: University of Vermont, Gund Institute for Environment
Language: English
Subfield: Organic Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221161877