Insights into the Three-Component Coupling Reactions of Aldehydes, Alkynes, and Amines Catalyzed by N-heterocyclic Carbene Silver: A DFT Study

Density functional theory (DFT) was used to investigate the three-component coupling reactions of aldehydes, alkynes, and amines (A3 coupling) using N-heterocyclic carbene silver as catalyst. This study reveals that addition reaction between catalyst phenylacetylene (PAE) forms Ag_PAE. Subsequently, one hydrogen atom Ag_PAE migrates nitrogen Amine. Thereafter, amine aldehyde condensation generates a molecule water an imine ion with (Path one) or without two) another Path has lower barrier than two. reacts phenylacetylide generate A3 product propargylamine (PPA). Furthermore, triple bond −N3 group in PPA undergo cycloaddition final (PR). The entire is strongly exothermic, and, therefore, easy conduct. Moreover, conceptual density calculations confirm mechanism. Investigating mechanism these will be helpful for understanding developing new synthesis strategies similar compounds.