Gold cross-coupling reactions

Abstract

This thesis is related to homogeneous gold redox catalysis, with a particular emphasis on
achieving gold-catalysed cross-coupling reactions.
The first chapter provides a general introduction, highlighting some key aspects of gold
catalysis that lay the groundwork for the research in this thesis. In the second chapter, we
explore the photochemistry of gold, aiming to achieve efficient oxidative addition—typically
the most challenging step in gold redox catalysis—without the need for external oxidants or
photosensitisers. Several gold(I) complexes are explored, and we demonstrate how a
photoactive ligand can facilitate the photochemical oxidative addition of electrophiles to
gold(I). Attempts were also made to integrate this process into a catalytic cross-coupling
reaction.
The third chapter presents initial efforts made towards achieving a gold-catalysed C(sp2
)-
C(sp3
) cross-coupling reaction. Several strategies, including the use of ring-strain release as a
driving force for transmetallation, are explored. The work in Chapter two set a precedent for
the reactions detailed in the final Chapter – a new method for gold-catalysed allylation of
aryl iodides.

Date of Award	10 Dec 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bristol
Supervisor	Chris A Russell (Supervisor), Andrew J Orr-Ewing (Supervisor) & John F Bower (Supervisor)