Cleavage of carbon-carbon bonds in aromatic nitriles using nickel(0)

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/ja0204933

The nickel(0) fragment [(dippe)Ni] has been found to react with a variety of aromatic nitriles. Initial π-coordination to the C=C and CN bonds of 2-cyanoquinoline is found to lead ultimately to C-CN oxidative addition. 3-Cyanoquinoline reacts similarly, although no η²-CN complex is observed. 2-, 3-, And 4-cyanopyridines react initially to give η²-nitrile complexes that then lead to quantitative formation of C-CN oxidative addition products. Benzonitrile reacts similarly but undergoes reversible insertion into the Ph-CN bond to give an equilibrium mixture of Ni(II) and Ni(0) adducts. A series of para-substituted benzonitriles has been studied in terms of both the position of the equilibrium between (dippe)Ni(η²-arylnitrile) (dippe)-Ni(CN)(aryl) and the rate of approach to equilibrium, and the Hammett plots indicate a buildup of negative charge at the ipso carbon both in the transition state and the Ni(II) product. Terephthalonitrile gives both η²-nitrile and oxidative addition adducts, as well as dimetalated products. No C-C or C-N cleavage of the aromatic ring is seen with quinoline or acridine; only η²-arene complexes are formed. The structures of many of these compounds are supported by x-ray data.

Full text of DOI:10.1021/ja0204933

Published on Web 07/20/2002
Cleavage of Carbon-Carbon Bonds in Aromatic Nitriles Using
Nickel(0)
Juventino J. Garcia,† Nicole M. Brunkan,‡ and William D. Jones*,‡
Contribution from the Facultad de Qu´ımica, UniVersidad Nacional Auto´noma de Me´xico,
Me´xico, D.F. 04510, and Department of Chemistry, UniVersity of Rochester,
Rochester, New York 14627
Received April 5, 2002
Abstract: The nickel(0) fragment [(dippe)Ni] has been found to react with a variety of aromatic nitriles.
Initial π-coordination to the CdC and CtN bonds of 2-cyanoquinoline is found to lead ultimately to C-CN
oxidative addition. 3-Cyanoquinoline reacts similarly, although no η2-CN complex is observed. 2-, 3-, And
4-cyanopyridines react initially to give η2-nitrile complexes that then lead to quantitative formation of C-CN
oxidative addition products. Benzonitrile reacts similarly but undergoes reversible insertion into the Ph-
CN bond to give an equilibrium mixture of Ni(II) and Ni(0) adducts. A series of para-substituted benzonitriles
has been studied in terms of both the position of the equilibrium between (dippe)Ni(η2-arylnitrile) h (dippe)-
Ni(CN)(aryl) and the rate of approach to equilibrium, and the Hammett plots indicate a buildup of negative
charge at the ipso carbon both in the transition state and the Ni(II) product. Terephthalonitrile gives both
η2-nitrile and oxidative addition adducts, as well as dimetalated products. No C-C or C-N cleavage of the
aromatic ring is seen with quinoline or acridine; only η2-arene complexes are formed. The structures of
many of these compounds are supported by X-ray data.
Introduction
The nickel dimer also has been shown to cleave the central
carbon-carbon bond in biphenylene6 and the C-C bond in
The cleavage of a variety of strong C-X σ-bonds, including
C-H, C-F, C-S, and C-C, has been accomplished using low-
valent transition metals.1 Of these, the latter remain a challenge
in substrates that do not contain ring strain or proximity effects
to bring about the bond cleavage. We report here an example
of C-CN bond cleavage that is both efficient and, in some cases,
reversible. These results are of relevance due to the fact that
this type of activation and these intermediates are directly
connected to the selective functionalization of a variety of
organic nitriles for the production of unsymmetrical biaryls;2
they are involved in the cycloaddition of nitriles,3 and they have
been reported more recently to be involved in the silicon-assisted
C-C bond activation of nitriles.4
acetylenes.7 In these reactions, the hydrido dimer serves as a
source of the nickel(0) fragment [Ni(dippe)], which undergoes
oxidative addition to a variety of substrates. In an effort to
expand the HDS capabilities of this complex to include HDN
reactions, we examined the reactivity of [(dippe)NiH]2 with
quinolines and other heterocycles. Rather than observing C-N
cleavage, however, we found that C-CN cleavage in substrates
derivatized with an electron-withdrawing cyano group was quite
facile with this complex.8
Results and Discussion
Reactions of Quinolines and Derivatives. Reaction of
[(dippe)NiH]2 with quinoline leads to a single new product (1),
as determined by NMR spectroscopy. The 31P NMR spectrum
shows two broad asymmetric doublets, indicative of two types
The nickel dimer [(dippe)NiH]2 has been reported to be
capable of cleaving the C-S bond in a variety of thiophenes,
benzothiophenes, and dibenzothiophenes5 and serves as a
functional model for the hydrodesulfurization (HDS) reaction.
1
of phosphorus environments. The H NMR spectrum shows a
1:1 ratio of dippe:quinoline resonances. Particularly, two
resonances appear as multiplets at δ 4.2 and 4.7, suggesting
η2-coordination of one of the double bonds of the quinoline
(eq 1). A single-crystal X-ray structure of 1 provides confirma-
tion of this hypothesis, with the C-C double bond in the
nitrogen-containing ring bound to the metal (Figure 1). The ring
* Corresponding author. E-mail: jones@chem.rochester.edu.
† Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Me´xico.
‡ University of Rochester.
(1) For a recent review of these topics, see: Topics in Organometallic
Chemistry. ActiVation of UnreactiVe Bonds and Organic Synthesis; Murai,
S., Ed.; Springer-Verlag: 1999; Berlin.
(2) Miller, J. A. Tetrahedron Lett. 2001, 42, 6991.
(3) Bruce, M. I.; Skelton, B. W.; White, A. H.; Zaitzeva, N. N. J. C. S. Dalton
2001, 3627. Bruce, M. I.; Skelton, B. W.; White, A. H.; Zaitzeva, N. N.
Inorg. Chem. Commun. 2001, 4, 617.
(6) Edelbach, B. L.; Vicic, D. A.; Lachicotte, R. J.; Jones, W. D. Organome-
tallics 1998, 17, 4784. Edelbach, B. L.; Lachicotte, R. J.; Jones, W. D.
Organometallics 1999, 18, 4040.
(4) Taw, F. L.; White, P. S.; Bergman, R. G.; Brookhart, M. J. Am. Chem.
Soc. 2002, 124, 4192.
(7) Muller, C.; Iverson, C.; Lachicotte, R. J.; Jones, W. D. J. Am. Chem. Soc.
2001, 123, 9718.
(5) Vicic, D. A.; Jones, W. D. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1997, 119, 10855. Vicic, D.
A.; Jones, W. D. Organometallics 1998, 17, 3411. Edelbach, B. L.; Vicic,
D. A.; Lachicotte, R. J.; Jones, W. D. Organometallics 1998, 17, 4784.
(8) A preliminary report of this reactivity has appeared: Garcia, J. J.; Jones,
W. D. Organometallics 2000, 19, 5544.
9
10.1021/ja0204933 CCC: $22.00 © 2002 American Chemical Society
J. AM. CHEM. SOC. 2002, 124, 9547-9555
9547

A R T I C L E S
Garcia et al.
Figure 2. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-acridine), 2. Ellipsoids are
shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-C(2), 2.029(5); Ni(1)-C(3), 1.969(5); Ni(1)-C(4), 2.488-
(6); Ni(1)-C(5), 3.027; C(2)-C(3), 1.424 (7); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2),
92.13(6).
Figure 1. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-quinoline), 1. Ellipsoids are
shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-C(3), 1.969(5); Ni(1)-C(4), 1.973(5); C(3)-C(4), 1.435(6);
P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 92.45(5).
Scheme 1
is bound symmetrically, with nickel-carbon distances of 1.969
(5) and 1.973(5) Å for Ni1-C3 and Ni1-C4, respectively. The
quinoline ring is tilted at an angle of 103.0° to the Ni1-C3-
C4 plane.
A similar situation is observed in the reaction of [(dippe)-
NiH]2 with acridine (eq 1). The 31P NMR spectrum of the
product (2) is similar to that of the η2-quinoline complex;
however, in this case four upfield resonances are seen at δ 5.26,
5.32, 5.73, and 6.09 for the aromatic hydrogens in the 1H NMR
spectrum, suggesting an η4-bound arene ring. In contrast, a
single-crystal X-ray structure reveals η2-coordination to the
benzenoid ring, with the nitrogen being endo to the η2-
coordination site (Figure 2). The nickel-carbon bond distances
show some evidence of metal interaction with a third carbon
atom, with distances for Ni1-C2, Ni1-C3, Ni1-C4, and Ni1-
C5 of 2.029(5), 1.969(5), 2.488(6), and 3.027 Å, respectively.
The acridine ring is tilted at an angle of 91.4° to the Ni1-C2-
C3 plane.
Hz), but no corresponding upfield resonances for a coordinated
olefin are seen in the H NMR spectrum. Initially, more 3b is
1
formed than 3a. 3b is formulated as an η2-nitrile complex (vide
infra). Upon standing at room temperature, however, this mixture
of compounds (3a and 3b) slowly converts into a single new
product, 3c. Product 3c is formulated as the Ni(II) derivative
(dippe)Ni(CN)(2-quinolinyl), as the 31P NMR spectrum now
shows two sharp doublets with JP-P ) 21 Hz. A single-crystal
X-ray structure of the product is shown in Figure 3. The
quinoline ring is almost perpendicular to the nickel square plane
(109.5°).
In an effort to compare the reactivity with substituted
quinolines for C-N bond activation, [(dippe)NiH]2 was reacted
with 2-cyanoquinoline. At ambient temperature, a mixture of
two compounds is obtained, both of which appear to be Ni(0)
species. The 31P NMR spectrum shows features for one
compound, 3a, which are similar to those of 1 and 2, implying
the formation of an η2-C,C-2-cyanoquinoline complex (Scheme
[(dippe)NiH]2 also reacts with 3-cyanoquinoline at room
temperature. In contrast to 2-cyanoquinoline, only a single
species (4a) is seen initially (Scheme 1). 4a shows only two
31P NMR resonances as broad asymmetric doublets similar to
those for 1, 2, and 3a, with JP-P ) 55 Hz, and is consequently
formulated as an η2-CdC adduct. The 1H NMR spectrum shows
a single upfield singlet at δ 4.54, indicating that coordination
has occurred at the cyano-substituted double bond and not at
the cyano substituent. A single-crystal X-ray structure of 4a is
shown in Figure 4, confirming the coordination site. The nickel-
1
1). Also the H NMR spectrum shows two doublets for the
coordinated CdC moiety at δ 5.48 and 5.66. The 31P NMR
spectrum of the second product, 3b, also shows two inequivalent
phosphorus nuclei with JP-P consistent with a Ni(0) species (68
9
9548 J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002

Cleavage of C−C Bonds in Using Nickel(0)
A R T I C L E S
Figure 3. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(2-quinolinyl)(CN), 3c. Ellipsoids
are shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-C(2), 1.918(2); Ni(1)-C(1), 1.877(3); C(1)-N(1), 1.138-
(4); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 89.15(3).
Figure 5. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(3-quinolinyl)(CN), 4b. Ellipsoids
are shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-C(3), 1.929(4); Ni(1)-C(1), 1.912(4); C(1)-N(1), 1.079-
(5); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 88.69(4).
Figure 6. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-2-cyanopyridine), 5a. Ellipsoids
are shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-N(1), 1.935(6); Ni(1)-C(1), 1.862(7); C(1)-N(1), 1.238-
(9); N(1)-C(1)-C(2), 137.0(7); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 91.45(8).
Figure 4. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-3-cyanoquinoline), 4a. El-
lipsoids are shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and
angles (deg): Ni(1)-C(3), 2.004(16); Ni(1)-C(4), 1.977(15); C(1)-N(2),
1.14(2); C(3)-C(4), 1.40(2); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 91.8(2).
preferred binding mode to be the η2-nitrile, 5a (Figure 6). The
nitrile CtN bond is lengthened by ∼0.1 Å upon coordination,
as compared with the unperturbed aryl-CN in 4a. The pyridine
ring is coplanar with the nickel square plane geometry, but the
1H NMR spectrum is consistent with rapid rotation around the
C-CN bond. As with the quinoline derivatives, nickel(0)
complex 5a converts into a nickel(II) C-CN cleavage product
(5b) upon standing (Scheme 2). While an X-ray structure of
the product was not obtained, 5b is assigned as the 2-pyridyl
carbon distances Ni1-C3 and Ni1-C4 are 2.004(16) and 1.977-
(15) Å, respectively, and the quinoline ring is tilted at an angle
of 99.8° to the Ni1-C3-C4 plane.
Upon gentle heating (50 °C), 4a is converted completely into
the Ni(II) oxidative addition product (dippe)Ni(CN)(3-quino-
linyl) 4b, which precipitates from solution. The 31P NMR
spectrum for 4b shows the smaller value for JP-P of 26 Hz, as
seen in 3c. A single-crystal X-ray structure of 4b is shown in
Figure 5, showing a quinoline ring that is nearly perpendicular
to the nickel square plane (109.0°), as in 3c.
Reactions of Cyanopyridines. At this point, one can ask if
the cleavage of aryl-CN bonds is specific to quinolines, or would
monocyclic analogues also undergo similar reactions. Conse-
quently, [(dippe)NiH]2 was reacted with 2-cyanopyridine.
Anticipated binding modes include coordination of the nitrile
nitrogen in an η1-fashion, coordination of the nitrile CN group
in an η2-fashion, η2-CdC coordination of the arene, and simple
dative coordination of the pyridine nitrogen. It was not obvious
which of these binding modes would be preferred. By 31P NMR
spectroscopy, only a single Ni(0) complex was seen showing
two doublets at δ 68.8 and 82.2 (JP-P ) 68 Hz). A single-
crystal X-ray structure of the product (Figure 6) shows this
cyanide derivative. This formulation is consistent with the 13
C
NMR spectrum, which contained a signal at δ 136.3 with a dd
multiplicity, due to the coupling of the quaternary carbon of
the cyanide group to two inequivalent phosphorus atoms, and
a similar signal at δ 188.1 (dd) assigned to the carbon in position
2 of the heterocycle bound directly to the metal. The 31P NMR
spectrum for 5b shows also a smaller value for JP-P of 20 Hz,
as seen in 4b.
Reactions of [(dippe)NiH]2 with 3-cyanopyridine and 4-cy-
anopyridine were also examined (Scheme 2). In each case a
single nickel(0) adduct was initially observed (6a and 7a,
respectively). The 31P NMR data for these species is consistent
with their formulation as η2-nitrile adducts. Resonances for 6a
are doublets at δ 68.6 and 80.7, with JP-P of 64.5 Hz, and for
9
J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002 9549

A R T I C L E S
Garcia et al.
Scheme 2
Figure 7. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-benzonitrile), 8a. Ellipsoids
are shown at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles
(deg): Ni(1)-N(1), 1.908(3); Ni(1)-C(1), 1.867(4), C(1)-N(1), 1.225-
(6); N(1)-C(1)-C(2), 136.1(4); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 91.54(5).
character to the complex to account for the preference for a
square planar structure. The back-bonding is also evident in the
lengthening of the N1-C1 bond (1.225(6) Å). The phenyl group
is coplanar with the Ni1-N1-C1 plane and the square plane
of the complex, despite the fact that a perpendicular arrangement
might have been expected on steric grounds, suggesting an
electronic preference for this geometry. The 1H NMR spectrum
shows no evidence, however, for hindered rotation around the
aryl-CN bond.
7a doublets are seen at δ 67.0 and 79.0, with JP-P of 63.5 Hz.
These complexes then convert slowly into the nickel(II) C-CN
insertion products, 6b and 7b, with resonances in the 31P NMR
spectrum at δ 75.15 and 84.0 (JP-P of 24 Hz) and δ 74.75 and
84.9 (JP-P of 24 Hz), respectively.
Reactions of Benzonitrile and Derivatives. Reaction of
[(dippe)NiH]2 with benzonitrile in THF-d8 solution leads to rapid
formation of the η2-nitrile complex, (dippe)Ni(η2-NCPh), 8a
(eq 2). The solution of the red dihydride complex becomes
At room temperature in THF solution, 8a slowly converts to
a new product, 8b, as the solution turns a pale yellow. The 1H
and 31P NMR spectra of compound 8b display similar patterns
of resonances to those observed for 8a. The coupling constant
J
P-P in the 31P NMR spectrum of 8b is only 20.6 Hz; however,
and the IR spectrum of 8b shows νC-N at 2108 cm-1. The 13
C
NMR spectrum shows the CtN σ-coordinated to nickel at δ
138.1 (dd, J ) 80.5, 30.2 Hz). Crystals of 8b were isolated at
room temperature, and a single-crystal X-ray structure showed
the compound to be the C-C cleavage product (dippe)Ni(Ph)-
(CN) (Figure 8). The C1-N1 distance is only 1.148 (3) Å and
the C1-Ni-C2 bond angle is 89.6 (1)°. Note that the phenyl
group now rotates to lie perpendicular to the square plane of
the complex (78.7°), in contrast to 8a but in agreement with
structures 3c and 4b.
The formation of 8b from 8a does not go to completion, but
rather reaches an equilibrium favoring 8b after 1-2 days (eq
2). Indeed, upon redissolving isolated crystals of pure 8b in
THF-d8, 8a was seen to be regenerated at the expense of 8b.
The equilibrium constant Keq was found to be ∼1 at 91 °C.
The equilibrium ratio of 8a:8b varied with temperature, and
determination of Keq over the temperature range 41-91 °C
allowed for the determination of the thermodynamic parameters
∆H° ) 4.00(22) kcal/mol and ∆S° ) 10.9(6) eu from a van’t
Hoff plot (Figure 9).
yellow as the reaction occurs, and the product can be isolated
by removal of solvent (and dihydrogen) under vacuum and
recrystallization at low temperature. The 31P NMR spectrum of
the product displays two slightly broadened doublets (δ 66.4
and 78.6) with JP-P ) 68 Hz, characteristic of an asymmetric
1
Ni(0) complex. The H NMR spectrum shows four distinct
methyl resonances for the two types of isopropyl groups along
with two methylene multiplets. Three phenyl ring resonances
are also observed in the aromatic region of the spectrum. The
IR spectrum in THF solution shows νC-N at 1745 cm-1
,
substantially reduced from the free ligand value of 2235 cm-1
due to π-back-bonding to the nitrile. In the 13C NMR spectrum,
the benzonitrile CtN carbon is shifted downfield to δ 169.2
(dd, J ) 29.1, 8.8 Hz), compared to δ 119 in the free nitrile.
These data are consistent with an in-plane coordination of the
benzonitrile ligand, and a single crystal X-ray structure confirms
this geometry (Figure 7). The 3-coordinate Ni(0) complex is
essentially planar, with the C and N atoms of the benzonitrile
ligand lying in the plane. Other P2Ni(0)-π-alkyne complexes
are known to adopt a similar geometry.9 The bent N1-C1-C2
angle of 150.9° indicates substantial π-back-bonding to the CN
group, which adds enough d8 Ni(II)-metallazacyclopropane
The rate of approach to equilibrium was also monitored to
determine the observed rate of formation of 8b from 8a (kobs
)
according to eqs 2 and 3, where [8a]0 is the initial concentration
(9) For instance see: Eisch, J. J.; Ma, X.; Han, K. I.; Gitua, J. N.; Kru¨ger, C.
Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 2001, 77. Rosenthal, U.; Shulz, W.; Go¨rls, H. Z. Anorg.
Allg. Chem. 1987, 550, 169. Rosenthal, U.; Go¨rls, H. J. Organomet. Chem.
1988, 348, 135.
9
9550 J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002

Cleavage of C−C Bonds in Using Nickel(0)
A R T I C L E S
Table 1. Effect of Substituents on the Equilibrium in Eq 2 (54 °C,
THF-d8)
X
σp
K
eq
k
obs, min-1
k1, min-1
NH2
-0.66
-0.27
-0.17
0
0.06
0.45
0.54
0.66
0.0395
0.3423
0.7391
1.618
3.878
28.4
0.014 68
0.000 558
0.000 529
0.000 634
0.000 705
0.000 604
0.002 051
0.001 369
0.003 119
OCH3
CH3
H
0.002 076
0.001 492
0.001 141
0.000 76
0.002 123
0.001 393
0.003 119
F
CO2CH3
CF3
CN
57.8
>1000
Figure 8. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(Ph)(CN), 8b. Ellipsoids are shown
at the 30% probability level. Selected distances (Å) and angles (deg): Ni-
(1)-C(2), 1.935(2); Ni(1)-C(1), 1.877(3); C(1)-N(1), 1.148(3), P(1)-
Ni(1)-P(2), 88.56(3).
Figure 9. van’t Hoff plot for the equilibrium: (dippe)Ni(η2-benzonitrile)
h (dippe)Ni(Ph)(CN).
of 8a and [8a]eq is the equilibrium concentration of 8a. The
expressions for the forward and reverse rate constants are shown
in eqs 4 and 5.
Figure 10. (a) Hammett plot for the equilibrium constants (Keq) from eq
2 vs σP at 54 °C (X ) CN omitted). (b) Hammett plot for the forward rate
constants (k1) from eq 2 vs σP at 54 °C.
obst
[8b] ) ([8a]0 - [8a]eq)(1 - e-k
)
(3)
(4)
Keqkobs
Similarly, a plot of ln k1 vs σp, also shown in Figure 10b,
gives a F value of +1.3. While there is somewhat more scatter
in this plot, the positive slope correlation is unmistakable and
is consistent with the localization of charge density on the ipso
carbon in the transition state for C-CN bond cleavage, although
not so much as in the Ni(II) product.
k1 )
1 + Keq
kobs
k-1
)
(5)
1 + Keq
Similar reactions were also observed with a series of para-
substituted benzonitriles, p-XC6H4CN, where X ) NH2, OCH3,
CH3, F, COOCH3, CF3, and CN (eq 2). While the last member
of this series, terephthalonitrile, goes essentially to completion
(Keq > 1000), the other members displayed equilibrium positions
and rates of approach to equilibrium that could be measured
by NMR spectroscopy. Table 1 summarizes the rate and
equilibrium data, as well as the Hammett σp values for the
aromatic substituents. A plot of ln Keq vs σp is shown in Figure
10a, and the strong correlation provides a F value of +6.1. This
large and positive value for F indicates that negative charge is
being stabilized on the ipso carbon of the substituted aryl group,
consistent with the organometallic nature of this bond as
possessing substantial Niδ+-Cδ- character.
Reactions of Terephthalonitrile. The dicyano substrate
terephthalonitrile reacts with [(dippe)NiH]2 (2:1 ratio) to give
initially the Ni(0) complex, i.e., the η2-nitrile complex (dippe)-
Ni(η2-NCC6H4CN), 9a (Scheme 3). The NMR spectra of the
crude reaction mixture showed no evidence for any complex
other than 9a. The 31P NMR spectrum showed two doublets at
δ 70.25 and 79.3, with JP-P ) 63 Hz. A single-crystal X-ray
structure of 9a shows the η2-coordination mode to the CN
moiety (Figure 11). The arene group can be seen to be nearly
coplanar with the Ni1-C1-N1 unit, as in 8a and 5a. Upon
standing at room temperature for 1 week, 9a converts quanti-
tatively into isomer 9b, which is a nickel(II) derivative with
one C-CN bond added to the metal center. Again, 31P NMR
spectra showed the presence of only two doublets at δ 74.1
9
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A R T I C L E S
Garcia et al.
Figure 12. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(4-cyanophenyl)(CN), 9b. El-
lipsoids are shown at the 30% probability level. Ni(1)-C(1), 1.877(2); Ni-
(1)-C(2), 1.923(2); C(1)-N(1), 1.141(3); (C(8)-N(2), 1.148(3); P(1)-
Ni(1)-P(2), 88.92(2).
Figure 11. ORTEP drawing of (dippe)Ni(η2-1,4-dicyanobenzene), 9a.
Ellipsoids are shown at the 30% probability level. Ni(1)-N(1), 1.905(6);
Ni(1)-C(1), 1.857(7), C(1)-N(1), 1.228(9); N(2)-C(8), 1.144(10); N(1)-
C(1)-C(2), 133.9(7); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 91.42(8).
Scheme 3
Figure 13. ORTEP drawing of [(dippe)Ni]2(η2,η2-1,4-dicyanobenzene), 9c.
Ellipsoids are shown at the 30% probability level. Ni(1)-N(1), 1.918(3);
Ni(1)-C(1), 1.853(3), C(1)-N(1), 1.225(4); N(2)-C(8), 1.148(3); N(1)-
C(1)-C(2), 136.4(3); P(1)-Ni(1)-P(2), 91.70(4).
of C-CN cleavage is particularly impressive, considering the
strength of the C-CN bond in benzonitrile (132.7 kcal/mol).12
η2-Coordination of nitriles is also known.13
Two recent reports following our communication of the ready
formation and interconversion of 8a and 8b are worth mention-
ing. First, Miller has found that reaction of benzonitriles with
alkoxy-modified Grignard reagents in the presence of catalytic
Ni(PMe3)2Cl2 leads to the formation of biaryl products in high
yields.2 This type of metal-catalyzed cross coupling is unprec-
edented and is likely to proceed through a nickel-based C-CN
cleavage. The present system might prove useful for similar
couplings. Second, Brookhart and Bergman have observed the
and 83.6, with JP-P ) 24.5 Hz. The X-ray structure of 9b shows
the expected d8 square planar geometry with the aryl group
rotated perpendicular (77.3°) (Figure 12).
Alternatively, intermediate 9a can be reacted with an ad-
ditional equivalent of [(dippe)NiH]2. A new product, 9c, is
observed, which is characterized as having two (dippe)Ni
moieties per terephthalonitrile ligand. NMR data are consistent
with a bis-η2-nitrile compound, and 31P NMR showed two
doublets at δ 66.4 and 78.4, with JP-P ) 68 Hz. A single-crystal
X-ray structure shows the two nitriles coordinated to a (dippe)-
Ni moiety (Figure 13). As expected, C-CN cleavage can be
seen as 9c undergoes the expected oxidative addition reaction.
Comparison with Other C-CN Cleavages. While a few
examples of C-CN cleavage have been reported,10 the revers-
ibility of this reaction is not well-documented.11 The observation
(11) For the formation of C-CN bonds, see: (a) Favero, G.; Gaddi, M.;
Morvillo, A.; Turco, A. J. Organomet. Chem. 1978, 149, 395. (b) Cassar,
L. J. Organomet. Chem. 1973, 54, C57. (c) Tsuji, Y.; Kusui, T.; Kojima,
T.; Sugiura, Y.; Yamada, N.; Tanaka, S.; Ebihara, M.; Kawamura, T.
Organometallics 1998, 17, 4835. (d) Luo, F.-H.; Chu, C.-I.; Cheng, C.-H.
Organometallics 1998, 17, 1025. (e) Huang, J.; Haar, C. M.; Nolan, S. P.;
Marcone, J. E.; Moloy, K. G. Organometallics 1999, 18, 297. (f) Marcone,
J. E.; Moloy, K. G. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1998, 120, 8527.
(12) Calculated using ∆Hf data from: Afeefy, H. Y.; Liebman, J. F.; Stein, S.
E. Neutral Thermochemical Data. In NIST Chemistry WebBook; NIST
Standard Reference Database Number 69; Mallard, W. G., Linstrom, P. J.,
Eds.; National Institute of Standards and Technology: Gaithersburg, MD,
20899 (http://webbook.nist.gov), February 2000.
(13) For η2-nitriles, see: Barrera, J.; Sabat, M.; Harman, W. D. J. Am. Chem.
Soc. 1991, 113, 8178. Chetcuti, P. A.; Knobler, C. B.; Hawthorne, M. F.
Organometallics 1988, 7, 650. Chetcuti, P. A.; Knobler, C. B.; Hawthorne,
M. F. Organometallics 1986, 5, 1913. Zecchin, S.; Zotti, G.; Pilloni, G.
Inorg. Chim. Acta 1979, 33, L117. Storhoff, B.; Infante, A. J. Inorg. Chem.
1974, 13, 3043. Payne, D. H.; Frye, H. Inorg. Nucl. Chem. Lett. 1973, 9,
505. Bland, W. J.; Kemmitt, R. D. W.; Moore, R. D. J. Chem. Soc., Dalton
Trans. 1973, 1292. Krogmann, K.; Mattes, R. Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. Engl.
1966, 5, 1046. Wright, T. C.; Wilkinson, G.; Motevalli, M.; Hursthouse,
M. B. J. Chem. Soc., Dalton Trans. 1986, 2017.
(10) For the cleavage of C-CN bonds, see: Abba, M.; Yamamoto, T. J.
Organomet. Chem. 1997, 532, 267. Favero, G.; Movillo, A.; Turco, A. J.
Organomet. Chem. 1983, 241, 251. Morvillo, A.; Turco, J. Organomet.
Chem. 1981, 208, 103. Parshall, G. W. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1974, 96, 2360.
Churchill, D.; Shin, J. H.; Hascall, T.; Hahn, J. M.; Bridgewater, B. M.;
Parkin, G. Organometallics 1999, 18, 2403. Gerlach, D. H.; Kane, A. R.;
Parshall, G. W.; Jesson, J. P.; Muetterties, E. L. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1971,
93, 3543. Burmeister, J. L.; Edwards, L. M. J. Chem. Soc. (A) 1971, 1663.
9
9552 J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002

Cleavage of C−C Bonds in Using Nickel(0)
A R T I C L E S
(m, 4H), 1.9-2.1 (m, 4H), 5.26 (m, br, 1H), 5.32 (m, br, 1H), 5.73 (m,
br, 1H), 6.09 (m, br, 1H), 7.01 (m, br, 1H), 7.18 (m, br, 2H), 7.31 (d,
1H), 7.48 (d, 1H). 31P: δ (ppm) 60.9 (d, J 50 Hz), 75.3 (d, J 50 Hz).
stoichiometric cleavage of aromatic and aliphatic C-CN bonds
using a metal-silyl complex.4 Initial formation of an iminoacyl
intermediate via migration of silicon to nitrogen is believed to
precede isonitrile deinsertion. This result suggests that other
Lewis acids might be capable of affecting C-CN cleavage.11e,f
Finally, control of the reversible formation of C-CN bonds
might lead to improved regioselectivity in the hydrocyanation
of olefins.
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,C-2-CN-quinoline)] (3a), [(dippe)-
Ni(η2-C,N-2-CN-quinoline)] (3b), and [(dippe)Ni(CN)(2-quinolinyl)]
(3c). Complex 3a was prepared from [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.22 g, 0.34 mmol)
and 2-cyanoquinoline (0.1066 g, 0.69 mmol). The reagents were mixed
at room temperature, adding the 2-cyanoquinoline to a THF solution
(10 mL) of the nickel dimer. After mixing a strong effervescence was
observed during 3 min and the solution was constantly stirred for 15
min, venting all the released gas to the box. The solution was then
evaporated to dryness and dried for 2 h. The residue was recrystallized
from hexanes and further dried for 2 h, during the crystallization and
drying the sample was kept in a dry ice/acetone cold bath. If the reaction
mixture is left in solution at room temperature, a precipitate for complex
3c is observed at 2 h of reaction, after 12 h such a precipitate becomes
rather abundant, the precipitate was filtered and washed with hexanes
(2 × 10 mL). Yield: 88%. Anal. Calcd for C24H38N2P2Ni (3c): C 60.65,
H 8.05, N 5.89. Found: C 60.83, H 8.31, N 5.83. IR ν (CN) 2106
cm-1. NMR spectra for 3b in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.87-1.32 (m, 24
H), 1.7-1.74 (m, 4H), 2.15-2.16 (m, 2H), 2.17-2.4 (m, 2H), 7.50
(m, 1H), 7.65 (m, 1H), 7.84 (d, J 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.9 (d, J 8.4 Hz, 1H),
8.01 (d, J 8.4 Hz, 1H), 8.15 (d, J 8.4 Hz, 1H). 31P: δ (ppm) 68.9 (d,
Conclusions
We have demonstrated that a simple Ni(0) fragment can
cleave the C-CN bonds of a variety of arylnitriles and
heterocyclic nitriles under very mild conditions. The C-C bond
cleavage proceeds via η2-coordination of nitriles and is revers-
ible. The position of the equilibrium can be altered by variation
of the substituents on the arene. The polar character of the Ni-C
bond was demonstrated through equilibrium and kinetic studies
using substituted benzonitriles. Further studies are currently
underway for the expansion of this reactivity to alkyl cyanides.
Experimental Section
1
J 68 Hz), 82.75 (d, J 68 Hz). NMR for 3a in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm)
All reactions were carried out using standard Schlenk and glovebox
techniques, under nitrogen. Solvents were dried and distilled before
use. Deuterated solvents (Cambridge Isotope Laboratories) for NMR
experiments were distilled from sodium/benzophenone ketyl and stored
over 3 Å molecular sieves. All other chemicals, filter aids, and
chromatographic materials were reagent grade and used as received.
1H, 13C, and 31P NMR spectra were determined on a Bruker AMX400
or AVANCE400 spectrometers in THF-d8, unless otherwise stated. 1H
and 13C chemical shifts (δ) are relative to the deuterated solvent
resonances, and 31P NMR spectra are relative to external 85% H3PO4.
Infrared spectra were obtained using a Perkin-Elmer 1600 FT spec-
trophotometer. Desert Analytics, USA, and USAI-UNAM carried out
elemental analyses. [(dippe)NiH]2 was synthesized according to the
previously reported procedure.14 Quinoline, acridine, 2-cyanoquinoline,
3-cyanoquinoline, benzonitrile, and 1,4-terephthalonitrile were pur-
chased from Aldrich; 2-cyanopyridine and 4-cyanopyridine were
purchased from Fluka; liquid ligands were distilled and dried over
molecular sieves before use; solid ligands were dried under high vacuum
for 12 h. A Siemens SMART system with a CCD area detector was
used for X-ray structure determinations. All complexes were purified
by crystallization. Microsoft Excel was used for all data analysis. Errors
are indicated as standard deviations of least squares linear fits.
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-quinoline)], 1. Quinoline (102.7 µL,
0.86 mmol) was added to a THF solution (10 mL) of the nickel dimer
[(dippe)NiH]2 (0.28 g, 0.43 mmol) at room temperature in the glovebox.
After mixing, a strong effervescence was observed for 3 min. The
solution was then stirred for 30 min, venting all the released gas (H2)
to the box. The reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness and dried
under vacuum for 6 h. The residue was recrystallized from hexanes
and further dried for 2 h. Yield: 90% of yellow crystals. Anal. Calcd
for C23H39NP2Ni: C 61.35, H 8.73, N 3.12. Found: C 61.27, H 8.57,
N 3.09. NMR spectra in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.9-1.3 (m, 24H), 1.5-
1.8 (m, 4H), 2.0-2.15 (m, 4H), 4.2 (m, br, 1H), 4.7 (d, br, 1H), 6.81
(m, br, 1H), 6.86 (m, br, 1H), 6.99 (m, br, 1H), 7.19 (m, br, 1H), 8.26
(m, br, 1H). 31P: δ (ppm) 65.3 (d, J 68.5 Hz), 66.6 (d, J 68.5 Hz).
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-acridine)], 2. Complex 2 was pre-
pared from [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.26 g, 0.4 mmol) and acridine (0.1447 g,
0.8 mmol) following the same procedure and purification methods as
described above for complex 1. Yield: 85%. Anal. Calcd for C27H41-
NP2Ni: C 64.82, H 8.26, N 2.79. Found: C 64.51, H 8.30, N 2.81.
5.48 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 5.66 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 6.85 (m, 1H), 6.96 (m, 1H),
7.3 (m, 1H), 8.2 (m, 1H). NMR spectra for 3c in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm)
0.9-0.97 (m, 6H), 1.1-1.15 (m, 6H), 1.26-1.32 (m, 6H), 1.45-1.51
(m, 6H), 1.65-1.82 (m, 4H), 2.1-2.14 (m, 2H), 2.38-2.41 (m, 2H),
7.31 (m, 1H), 7.49-7.57 (m, 2H), 7.64 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 7.70 (d, J 8.4
Hz, 1H), 7.91 (d, J 8.4 Hz, 1H). 13C: δ (ppm) 17.98 (s, CH3), 18.9 (s,
CH3), 19.14 (s, br, CH3), 19.80 (dd, CH2), 19.99 (s, br, CH3), 22.33
(dd, CH2), 24.15 (d, CH), 25.3 (d, CH), 123.8 (s, CH), 125.9 (s, C),
127.9 (s, CH), 128.2 (s, CH), 128.3 (s, br, CH), 128.5 (s, CH), 132.25
(d, CH, JP-C 10 Hz), 140.5 (dd, JP-C 70.4 Hz, 20.1 Hz, CN), 148.65
(d, JP-C 10 Hz, CH), 192.0 (dd, JP-C 90.5 Hz, 30.0 Hz, C). 31P: δ
(ppm) 73.7 (d, J 21 Hz), 80.27 (d, J 21 Hz).
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,C-3-CN-quinoline)] (4a) and
[(dippe)Ni(CN)(3-quinolinyl)] (4b). Complex 4a was prepared from
[(dippe)NiH]2 (0.192 g, 0.29 mmol) and 3-cyanoquinoline (0.0920 g,
0.59 mmol), following a similar procedure as described for 3a.
Analogously, complex 4a reacts further in solution to give complex
4b; however, improved yields for 4b were obtained if the reaction was
gently warmed to 50 °C for 12 h. Yield: 80%. Anal. Calcd for
C24H38N2P2Ni (4a and 4b): C 60.65, H 8.05, N 5.89. Found
(respectively): C 60.28, H 8.13, N 5.93, and C 60.56, H 8.10, N 5.81.
NMR spectra for 4a in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.18-0.24 (m, 6H) 0.9-
0.1.2 (m, 12H), 1.3-1.34 (m, 6H), 1.52-1.69 (m, 4H), 2.03-2.1 (m,
4H), 4.54 (s, br, 1H), 6.93-6.98 (m, 2H), 7.07 (m, 1H), 7.23 (m, 1H),
8.13 (s, br, 1H). 31P: δ (ppm) 64.9 (d, J 55 Hz), 69.9 (d, J 55 Hz).
NMR spectra for 4b in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.88-0.97 (m, 6H), 1.11-
1.16 (m, 6H), 1.27-1.32 (m, 6H), 1.46-1.52 (m, 6H), 1.79-2.0 (m,
4H), 2.07-2.2 (m, 2H), 2.40-2.46 (m, 2H), 7.38 (m, 1H), 7.46 (m,
1H), 7.60 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 7.88 (d, J 8.4 Hz, 1H), 8.03 (d, J 4.8 Hz,
1H), 9.02 (s, br, 1H). 13C: δ (ppm) 17.7-20.9 (m, CH3), 22.33 (m,
CH2), 24.5 (m, CH), 25.7 (m, CH), 125.1-128.8 (m), 129.1 (s), 129.7
(s, CH), 138.8 (dd, JP-C 75.5 Hz, 27 Hz, C), 142.5 (s), 143.1 (s), 145.8
(s), 152.0 (dd, JP-C 70.5 Hz, 30.0 Hz, CN), 157.5 (s), 158.4 (s). 31P:
δ (ppm) 74.6 (d, J 26 Hz), 84.1 (d, J 26 Hz).
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,N-2-CN-pyridine)] (5a) and [(dip-
pe)Ni(CN)(2-pyridyl)] (5b). Both compounds were prepared as
described above for 3a and 3c, respectively, from [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.1953
g, 0.30 mmol) and 2-cyanopyridine (0.0631 g, 0.606 mmol). Analo-
gously, complex 5a reacts further in solution to give complex 5b. Better
yields for 5b were obtained if the reaction was gently warmed to 50
°C for 12 h. Yield: 86%. Anal. Calcd for C20H36N2P2Ni (5a and 5b):
C 56.50, H 8.53, N 6.58. Found (respectively): C 56.45, H 8.50, N
1
NMR spectra in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm) 0.6-1.1 (m, 24H), 1.45-1.6
(14) Vicic, D. A.; Jones, W. D. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1997, 119, 10855.
9
J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002 9553

A R T I C L E S
Garcia et al.
6.47, and C 56.60, H 8.48, N 6.34. NMR spectra for 5a in THF-d8, 1H:
δ (ppm) 1.0-1.30 (m, 24H), 1.62-1.67 (m, 4H), 2.1-2.21 (m, 4H),
7.2 (m, 1H), 7.65 (m, 1H), 7.74 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 8.57 (d, J 4 Hz, 1H).
31P: δ (ppm) 68.6 (d, J 68 Hz), 82.3 (d, J 68 Hz). NMR spectra for 5b
in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.87-0.98 (m, 6H), 1.11-1.15 (m, 6H), 1.24-
1.32 (m, 6H), 1.41-1.48 (m, 6H), 1.70-1.9 (m, 4H), 2.14-2.2 (m,
2H), 2.30-2.42 (m, 2H), 6.52 (m, 1H), 6.94 (m, 1H), 7.47 (d, J 8 Hz,
1H), 8.31 (d, J 4 Hz, 1H). 13C: δ (ppm) 13.4 (s, CH3), 16.96 (s, CH3),
18.0 (s, CH3), 18.26 (s, CH3), 19.23 (s, CH3), 23.3-25.4 (m), 115.98
(s, CH), 129.3 (s, CH), 135.2 (d, J 9 Hz, CH), 136.3 (dd, J 75 Hz, J
30 Hz, CN), 188.1 (dd, J 94 Hz, J 29 Hz, C). 31P: δ (ppm) 72.5 (d, J
20 Hz), 79.6 (d, J 20 Hz).
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,N-3-CN-pyridine)] (6a) and [(dip-
pe)Ni(CN)(3-pyridyl)] (6b). Both compounds were prepared as
described above for 3a and 3c, respectively, from [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.1676
g, 0.260 mmol) and 3-cyanopyridine (0.0542 g, 0.520 mmol). Analo-
gously, complex 6a reacts further in solution to give complex 6b. Better
yields for 6b were obtained when the reaction was gently warmed to
50 °C for 12 h. Yield: 80%. Anal. Calcd for C20H36N2P2Ni (6a and
6b): C 56.50, H 8.53, N 6.58. Found (respectively): C 56.60, H 8.61,
N 6.43, and C 56.28, H 8.72, N 6.32. NMR spectra for 6a in THF-d8,
1H: δ (ppm) 1.0-1.17 (m, 18H), 1.23-1.3 (m, 6H), 1.63-1.72 (m,
4H), 2.09-2.20 (m, 4H), 7.3 (m, 1H), 7.95 (d, J 8 Hz, 1H), 8.48 (d, J
4 Hz, 1H), 8.91 (s, 1H). 31P: δ (ppm) 68.6 (d, J 65 Hz), 80.7 (d, J 65
Hz). NMR spectra for 6b in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.88-0.95 (m, 6H),
1.06-1.15 (m, 6H), 1.20-1.29 (m, 6H), 1.39-1.46 (m, 6H), 1.73-
1.92 (m, 4H), 2.04-2.14 (m, 2H), 2.36-2.42 (m, 2H), 6.80 (m, 1H),
7.58 (m, br, 1H), 7.89 (d, J 4 Hz, 1H), 8.48 (s, 1H). 13C (ppm) 18.1 (s,
CH3), 19.22 (s, CH3), 19.4 (s, CH3), 20.3 (s, CH3), 22.5-23.1 (m, CH),
24.68-26.4 (m, CH2), 123.1 (s, CH), 136.6 (m, br, CN), 143.7 (s, CH),
145.2 (s, CH), 154.7 (dd, J 70 Hz, J 30 Hz, C), 157.1 (s, CH). 31P: δ
(ppm) 75.15 (d, J 24 Hz), 85.0 (d, J 24 Hz).
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,N-4-CN-pyridine)] (7a) and [(dip-
pe)Ni(CN)(4-pyridyl)] (7b). Both compounds were prepared as
described above for 3a and 3c, respectively, from [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.2097
g, 0.325 mmol) and 4-cyanopyridine (0.0678 g, 0.651 mmol). Analo-
gously, complex 7a reacts further in solution to give complex 7b. Best
yields for 7b were obtained when the reaction was gently warmed to
50 °C for 12 h. Yield: 80%. Anal. Calcd for C20H36N2P2Ni (7a and
7b): C 56.50, H 8.53, N 6.58. Found (respectively): C 56.33, H 8.42,
N 6.62, and C 56.61, H 8.46, N 6.18. NMR spectra for 7a in THF-d8,
1H: δ (ppm) 1.0-1.16 (m, 18H), 1.23-1.31 (m, 6H), 1.62-1.77 (m,
4H), 2.03-2.21 (m, 4H), 7.45 (d, J 4 Hz, 2H), 8.54 (d, J 4 Hz, 2H).
31P: δ (ppm) 67.0 (d, J 63 Hz), 79.0 (d, J 63 Hz). NMR spectra for 7b
in THF-d8, 1H: δ (ppm) 0.92-1.0 (m, 6H), 1.09-1.15 (m, 6H), 1.22-
1.28 (m, 6H), 1.35-1.43 (m, 6H), 1.68-1.90 (m, 4H), 2.04-2.14 (m,
2H), 2.34-2.40 (m, 2H), 7.37 (m, br, 2H), 7.83 (m, br, 2H). 13C: δ
(ppm) 18.1 (s, CH3), 19.21 (s, CH3), 19.4 (s, CH3), 20.3 (s, CH3), 22.5-
23.0 (m, CH), 24.82-26.4 (m, CH2), 123.1 (s, CH), 135.3 (s, CH),
136.4 (m, br, CN), 145.9 (s, CH), 177.0 (dd, J 70 Hz, J 30 Hz, C). 31P:
δ (ppm) 74.75 (d, J 24 Hz), 84.9 (d, J 24 Hz).
J ) 15.7, 7.2 Hz, 6 H), 1.69-1.89 (m, 4 H), 2.06-2.14 (m, 2 H),
2.37-2.43 (m, 2 H), 6.67 (t, J ) 7.1 Hz, 1 H), 6.87 (pt, J ) 7.1 Hz,
2 H), 7.34 (pt, J ) 5.6 Hz, 2 H). 31P: δ (ppm) 71.2 (d, J ) 20.6 Hz),
81.7 (d, J ) 20.6 Hz).
Reaction of [(dippe)NiH]2 with 1,4-Terephthalonitrile. The reac-
tion of [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.1010 g, 0.156 mmol) and 1,4-terephthalonitrile
(0.0401 g, 0.313 mmol) produced almost quantitatively the complex
[(dippe)Ni(η2-C,N-1,4-(CN)2-benzene)], 9a. Similar to the above-
described reactions, on warming a solution of this compound to 50 °C
for 12 h, complex [(dippe)Ni(CN)(4-CN-phenyl)], 9b, was obtained.
The use of [(dippe)NiH]2 (0.0950 g, 0.147 mmol) and 1,4-terephtha-
lonitrile (0.0188 g, 0.147 mmol) allowed the production of complex
[(dippe)Ni]2(η2,η2-C,N-1,4-(CN)2-benzene)], 9c. Total yield: 90%.
1
NMR spectra for 9a in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm) 1.05-1.18 (m, 18 H),
1.23-1.29 (m, 6H), 1.65-1.73 (m, 4 H), 2.06-2.22 (m, 4 H), 7.69 (d,
J 8 Hz, 2 H), 7.75 (d, J 8.0 Hz, 2 H). 31P: δ (ppm) 67.5 (d, J 63 Hz),
1
79.3 (d, J 63 Hz). NMR spectra for 9b in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm) 0.92
(m, 6 H), 1.13 (m, 6 H), 1.27 (m, 6 H), 1.44 (m, 6 H), 1.72-1.82 (m,
4 H), 2.06-2.10 (m, 2 H), 2.38-2.41 (m, 2 H), 7.14 (d, J 8 Hz, 2 H),
7.6 (d, br, J 8 Hz, 2 H). 31P: δ (ppm) 73.1 (d, J 24.5 Hz), 83.6 (d, J
24.5 Hz). NMR spectra for 9c in THF-d8, 31P: δ (ppm) 66.4 (d, J 68
Hz), 78.7 (d, J 68 Hz).
Hammett Studies. In the glovebox, a colorless solution of ArCN
(Ar ) 4-RC6H4; R ) NH2, OCH3, CH3, H, F, COOCH3, CF3, or CN;
39 µmol) in THF was added to a dark red solution of [(dippe)Ni(H)]2
(12.0 mg, 18.6 µmol) in THF in an NMR tube. The reaction mixture
immediately turned golden-brown, and H2 gas evolved. To remove H2,
the solvent was evaporated in vacuo, leaving a brown, oily residue
that was dried for 5 h and then redissolved in THF-d8. A 31P NMR
spectrum showed complete conversion to the η2-CN Ni(0) complex
but no formation of the Ni(II) C-CN cleavage product. The sample
was then heated to 54 °C, and conversion of the Ni(0) to the Ni(II)
complex was monitored by 31P NMR over a period of 1-3 days, until
an equilibrium mixture of Ni(0) and Ni(II) was obtained. Keq ) [Ni-
(II)]/[Ni(0)] was calculated from the average integrations of several
31P NMR spectra of the equilibrium mixture. The first-order rate
constant, kobs (min-1), was obtained by fitting a plot of [Ni(II)] vs time
t
to the equation C ) (Cfinal - Cinitial)(1 - e-k ), where C ) [Ni(II)],
obs
using Microsoft Excel. The forward rate constant, k1 (min-1), was
calculated via the equation k1 ) kobs/[1 + (1/Keq)]. Hammett plots of
ln(Keq/K0) vs σp and ln(k1/k0) vs σp were generated using the values K0
and k0 derived for R ) H.
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) C6H5. Vide supra.
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) C6H5. Vide supra.
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-NH2C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
2
2
THF-d8): δ ) 75.9 (d, JP-P ) 71.6 Hz), 63.7 (d, JP-P ) 71.6 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.49 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN),
6.53 (d, J ) 7.6 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 4.72 (br s, 2 H, NH2), 2.14 (m, 4 H,
iPr CH), 1.64 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.24 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 14.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr
i
CH3), 1.11 (m, 18 H, Pr CH3).
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-NH2C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
2
2
Preparation of [(dippe)Ni(η2-C,N-benzonitrile)] (8a) and [(dippe)-
Ni(CN)(phenyl)] (8b). Both compounds were prepared as described
above for 3a and 3c, respectively, from 1 (0.180 g, 0.279 mmol) and
benzonitrile (0.0576 g, 0.558 mmol). Analogously, complex 8a reacts
further in solution to give complex 8b. Best yields for 8b were obtained
when the reaction was gently warmed to 50 °C for 3 days. Yield: 85%.
Anal. Calcd for C21H37NP2Ni (8a and 8b): C 59.46, H 8.79, N 3.30.
Found (respectively): C 59.36, H 8.97, N 3.30, and C 59.46, H 8.90,
THF-d8): δ ) 79.3 (d, JP-P ) 20.7 Hz), 68.8 (d, JP-P ) 20.7 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 6.96 (br m, 2 H, Ar), 6.39 (br m,
i
2 H, Ar), 4.42 (br s, 2 H, NH2), 2.38 (m, 2 H, Pr CH), 2.1-2.2, one
resonance under Ni(0) resonance (m, 2 H, iPr CH),1.85 (m, 4 H, PCH2),
1.44 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 15.4 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.1-1.3, two resonances
under Ni(0) resonances (dd, 6 H each, iPr CH3), 0.96 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz,
i
15.2 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3).
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-OCH3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
2
2
1
THF-d8): δ ) 76.4 (d, JP-P ) 69.1 Hz), 64.2 (d, JP-P ) 69.1 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.68 (d, J ) 8.4 Hz, 2 H, ArCN),
6.89 (d, J ) 8.4 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 3.79 (s, 3 H, OCH3), 2.14 (m, 4 H,
iPr CH), 1.66 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.25 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 14.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr
N 3.40. NMR spectra for 8a in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm) 1.05-1.18 (m,
18 H), 1.23-1.29 (dd, 6 H), 1.61-1.72 (m, 4 H), 2.09-2.17 (m, 4 H),
7.27 (q, J ) 7.1 Hz, 2 H), 7.32 (t, J ) 7.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.72 (d, J ) 7.0
Hz, 2 H). 31P: δ (ppm) 66.4 (d, J ) 68 Hz), 78.6 (d, J ) 68 Hz). 31P:
δ (ppm) 66.4 (d, J ) 68 Hz), 78.6 (d, J ) 68 Hz). NMR spectra for 8b
i
CH3), 1.11 (m, 18 H, Pr CH3).
1
in THF-d8, H: δ (ppm) 0.92 (dd, J ) 14.7, 7.2 Hz, 6 H), 1.14 (dd,
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-OCH3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
2
2
J ) 13.7, 7.1 Hz, 6 H), 1.27 (dd, J ) 13.3, 6.8 Hz, 6 H), 1.45 (dd,
THF-d8): δ ) 79.8 (d, JP-P ) 21.5 Hz), 69.4 (d, JP-P ) 21.5 Hz).
9
9554 J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002

Cleavage of C−C Bonds in Using Nickel(0)
A R T I C L E S
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.17 (m, 2 H, Ar), 6.60 (d, J ) 7.6
CH3), 1.28 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 13.6 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.14 (dd, J ) 7.0
i
i
i
Hz, 2 H, Ar), 3.63 (s, 3 H, OCH3), 2.39 (m, 2 H, Pr CH), 2.22 (m, 2
Hz, 13.8 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3), 0.96 (dd, J ) 7.4 Hz, 15.4 Hz, 6 H, Pr
CH3).
H, iPr CH), 1.84 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.45 (dd, J ) 6.8 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H,
iPr CH3), 1.1-1.3, two resonances under Ni(0) resonances (dd, 6 H
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-CF3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
i
i
2
2
each, Pr CH3), 0.94 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 15.2 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3).
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-CH3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
THF-d8): δ ) 77.2 (d, JP-P ) 64.3 Hz), 65.2 (d, JP-P ) 64.3 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.83 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN),
7.67 (d, J ) 8.4 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 2.15 (m, 4 H, iPr CH), 1.69 (m, 4 H,
2
2
THF-d8): δ ) 76.4 (d, JP-P ) 68.9 Hz), 64.2 (d, JP-P ) 68.9 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.61 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN),
7.14 (d, J ) 7.6 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 2.33 (s, 3 H, CH3), 2.15 (m, 4 H, iPr
CH), 1.66 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.26 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 14.8 Hz, 6 H, Pr
CH3), 1.11 (m, 18 H, Pr CH3).
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-CH3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
i
PCH2), 1.27 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 15.0 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3), 1.12 (m, 18 H,
iPr CH3).
i
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-CF3C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
i
2
2
THF-d8): δ ) 81.0 (d, JP-P ) 23.0 Hz), 70.6 (d, JP-P ) 23.0 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.59 (m, 2 H, Ar), 71.5 (d, J ) 7.7
Hz, 2 H, Ar), 2.42 (m, 2 H, iPr CH), 2.10 (m, 2 H, iPr CH),1.84 (m, 4
H, PCH2), 1.46 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.29 (dd, J )
7.0 Hz, 13.4 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.15 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 13.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr
2
2
THF-d8): δ ) 79.6 (d, JP-P ) 20.4 Hz), 69.3 (d, JP-P ) 20.4 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.21 (m, 2 H, Ar), 6.75 (d, J ) 6.8
Hz, 2 H, Ar), 2.40 (m, 2 H, iPr CH), 2.16 (s, 3 H, CH3), 2.14 (m, 2 H,
iPr CH),1.84 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.45 (dd, J ) 6.8 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H, Pr
i
i
CH3), 0.95 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3).
CH3), 1.26 (dd, J ) 6.8 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.13 (dd, J ) 6.7
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-CNC6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
i
i
2
2
Hz, 13.7 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3), 0.93 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 15.2 Hz, 6 H, Pr
CH3).
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-FC6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz, THF-
d8): δ ) 76.9 (d, JP-P ) 66.3 Hz), 64.8 (d, JP-P ) 66.3 Hz). H
NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.74 (m, 2 H, ArCN), 7.08 (t, J ) 8.6
Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 2.15 (m, 4 H, Pr CH), 1.68 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.26
THF-d8): δ ) 77.3 (d, JP-P ) 63.3 Hz), 65.5 (d, JP-P ) 63.3 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.75 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN),
7.69 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 2.14 (m, 4 H, iPr CH), 1.70 (m, 4 H,
2
2
1
i
PCH2), 1.26 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 14.8 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3), 1.10 (m, 18 H,
iPr CH3).
i
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-CNC6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
i
i
2
2
(dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 14.8 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3), 1.12 (m, 18 H, Pr CH3).
THF-d8): δ ) 81.5 (d, JP-P ) 23.8 Hz), 70.9 (d, JP-P ) 23.8 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.61 (m, 2 H, Ar), 7.14 (d, J ) 7.6
Hz, 2 H, Ar), 2.42 (m, 2 H, iPr CH), 2.09 (m, 2 H, iPr CH),1.84 (m, 4
H, PCH2), 1.45 (dd, J ) 7.4 Hz, 15.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.28 (dd, J )
6.8 Hz, 13.6 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.14 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 13.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-FC6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162 MHz,
2
2
THF-d8): δ ) 80.6 (d, JP-P ) 23.0 Hz), 70.0 (d, JP-P ) 23.0 Hz).
1H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.28 (m, 2 H, Ar), 6.71 (t, J ) 8.8
Hz, 2 H, Ar), 2.40 (m, 2 H, iPr CH), 2.14 (m, 2 H, iPr CH),1.84 (m, 4
H, PCH2), 1.45 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 15.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.27 (dd, J )
7.0 Hz, 13.4 Hz, 6 H, iPr CH3), 1.14 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 13.8 Hz, 6 H, iPr
i
CH3), 0.96 (dd, J ) 7.4 Hz, 15.4 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3).
i
Acknowledgment. Acknowledgment is made to the U.S.
Department of Energy, grant FG02-86ER13569, to CONACYT,
and to DGAPA-UNAM for their support of this work. We also
thank the NSF International Division for a travel award (INT-
0102217).
CH3), 0.95 (dd, J ) 7.4 Hz, 15.4 Hz, 6 H, Pr CH3).
(dippe)Ni(ArCN); Ar ) 4-CH3O(CO)C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162
2
2
MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 76.9 (d, JP-P ) 65.5 Hz), 65.0 (d, JP-P ) 65.5
1
Hz). H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.99 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H,
ArCN), 7.72 (d, J ) 8.0 Hz, 2 H, ArCN), 3.86 (s, 3 H, OMe), 2.15 (m,
i
4 H, Pr CH), 1.69 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.27 (dd, J ) 7.0 Hz, 15.0 Hz, 6
i
i
H, Pr CH3), 1.11 (m, 18 H, Pr CH3).
Supporting Information Available: Includes experimental
details for X-ray structures, tables of X-ray data, and thermo-
dynamic and kinetic plots for the studied reactions.This material
is available free of charge via the Internet at http://pubs.acs.org.
(dippe)Ni(Ar)(CN); Ar ) 4-CH3O(CO)C6H4. 31P{1H} NMR (162
MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 80.6 (d, JP-P ) 22.6 Hz), 70.3 (d, JP-P ) 22.6
Hz). H NMR (400 MHz, THF-d8): δ ) 7.54 (d, J ) 2.8 Hz, 4 H,
Ar), 3.75 (s, 3 H, OCH3), 2.41 (m, 2 H, Pr CH), 2.10 (m, 2 H, Pr
2
2
1
i
i
i
CH),1.80 (m, 4 H, PCH2), 1.45 (dd, J ) 7.2 Hz, 15.6 Hz, 6 H, Pr
JA0204933
9
J. AM. CHEM. SOC. VOL. 124, NO. 32, 2002 9555