Functionalization and Hydrogenation of Carbon Chains Derived from CO

Selective reactions that combine H2, CO and organic electrophiles (aldehyde, ketones, isocyanide) to form hydrogenated C3 C4 carbon chains are reported. These proceed by homologation mediated [W(CO)6] an aluminum(I) reductant, followed functionalization hydrogenation of the chain ends. A combination kinetics (rates, KIEs) DFT calculations has been used gain insight into a key step which involves metallocarbene intermediate. findings expand extremely small scope systems H2 make well-defined products with complete control over length functionality.