Some recent studies of the mechanisms of dehydration reactions of solids

Thermal Analysis, the central topic of this conference, is a technique that is widely used for the measurement of reaction rates and from which deductions can be made concerning the identity of the bond redistribution steps contributing to the chemical change being investigated. The mechanistic insights obtained from such studies enable us to identify the factors that determine reactivity and to understand theoretically the controls operating in chemical reactions. The present article points out, however, that kinetic data alone do not usually provide sufficient information to enable detailed identification of the sequence of steps through which reactants are converted into products.This review discusses recent research concerned with characterizing mechanisms within a group of solid state processes that has been the subject of extensive kinetic investigations (including thermal analyses): the dehydrations of crystalline hydrates. Conclusions from previous studies of reactions of this type have contributed extensively to the more general understanding of solid-state reactions. Here we discuss some mechanistic conclusions from a number of recent studies in the field and emphasize the value of complementing rate measurements with other relevant observations, including microscopic examinations of the textural modifications that accompany chemical changes.The sincere thanks of the author to all his collaborators cited in the reference list and to M. E. Brady for his helpful contributions during the preparation of this review.     

Interconnection between chain growth in the Herington scheme and secondary reactions involving ethylene in the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis

It is shown that C₄₊ hydrocarbons are predominantly formed from intermediates containing three carbon atoms at high values of chain growth probability, but result from interactions of two carbon fragments at low values of chain growth probability. __________ Translated from Teoreticheskaya i éksperimental’naya Khimiya, Vol. 42, No. 3, pp. 178–183, May–June, 2006.     

Theoretical mechanistic study on the radical-molecule reactions of cyanomethylidyne with PH3, H2S, and HCl

The cyanomethylidyne (CCN) has been the long-standing subject of extensive theoretical and experimental studies on its structures and spectroscopies. However, there are few investigations on its reactivity. Our very recent theoretical work indicated that even with the simplest methane, the CCN reaction faces almost zero barriers following the carbyne mechanism as CH does. This was suggestive of the powerfulness of the nonatomic and nonhydrogenated CCN radical in depleting old molecules and synthesizing new cyanogen-containing molecules in either combustion or interstellar processes. In this paper, a detailed mechanistic study at the CCSD(T)/6-311+G(2df,p)//B3LYP/6-311g(d,p) and G2M(CC1)//B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) computational levels is reported for the reactions of CCN with a series of sigma-bonded molecules of the second row H(n)X (X,n) = (P,3), (S,2), and (Cl,1). The carbenoid insertion is confirmed as the most favored entrance channel, forming H(n) (-1)XC(H)CN. Subsequently, H(n) (-1)XC(H)CN will predominantly lead to product H(n) (-2)XC(H)CN+H via the H-extrusion processes (except X = Cl). Yet, the CCN+HX (X = Cl) reaction is the exception because XC(H)CN intrinsically has no H-atoms at X for extrusion or migration. At G2M(CC1)//B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) computational level, ClC(H)CN can only dissociate back to the reactant or be stabilized with its isomers upon sufficient collisions or radiation. The carbyne character confirmed in this paper provides a useful base for future experimental and theoretical study on the chemistry of this nonatomic and nonhydrogenated reactive radical. In addition, interestingly, the complexes H(n)X-CCN (X,n) = (P,3) and (S,2) formed in the reactions are found not to be the simple (loosely bound) donor-accepter complexes as those formed in the CCN insertions into other hydrides (NH(3), H(2)O, HF, HCl).On the basis of the comparison with the qualitative features of typical ylides, H(3)P--CCN and H(2)S--CCN are considered to be similar to the ylides in nature, being "ylide-like radicals." They might be observed in some experiments, since they are in deep potential wells on the energy surface.     

The reactions between negative hydrogen ions and silane

Contracted CI-calculations have been performed in order to find out the mechanisms of the reactions involved when negative hydrogen ions react with silane. There were initially severe problems to find a balanced basis set to describe the reactions including correlation, particularly for the choice of diffuse functions. Finally, in agreement with earlier calculations, SiH ₅ ^– was found to be more stable than SiH₄+H^– by 21 kcal/mol but less stable than SiH ₃ ^– and H₂ by 6 kcal/mol. A barrier in the S _N2 reaction SiH₄+H^– SiH₅ has previously been predicted by calculations, which was not confirmed by the present CI calculations. The lack of a barrier is in agreement with experimental evidence. Contrary to what is expected from the orbital symmetry rules, which predict two allowed pathways, SiH ₅ ^– does not dissociate easily to the lower lying SiH ₃ ^– + H₂. A barrier of 57 kcal/mol, which was very difficult to locate, was finally found. In order to explain the experimental observation of SiH ₃ ^– and the lack of observation of SiH ₅ ^– a different mechanism for the reaction SiH₄+H^– SiH ₃ ^– + H₂ is suggested. For a direct proton transfer a barrier of less than 10 kcal/mol is predicted.     

Multicomponent coupling reactions for organic synthesis: chemoselective reactions with amide-aldehyde mixtures

The acid-catalyzed condensation chemistry of simple amides and aldehydes provides a highly prolific source of diverse reactants for irreversible follow-up reactions. Amide-aldehyde mixtures have been successfully employed in multicomponent syntheses of N-acyl alpha-amino acids (via palladium-catalyzed amidocarbonylation) and various cyclohexene, cyclohexadiene, and benzene derivatives (via the amide-aldehyde-dienophile (AAD) reaction).     

Chemical surface modification of self-assembled monolayers by radical nitroxide exchange reactions

This article describes the application of nitroxide exchange reactions of surface-bound alkoxyamines as a tool for reversible chemical modification of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). This approach is based on radical chemistry, which allows for introduction of various functional groups and can be used to reversibly introduce functionalities at surfaces. To investigate the scope of this surface chemistry, alkoxyamines with different functionalities were synthesized and were then applied to the immobilization of, for example, dyes, sugars, or biotin. Surface analysis was carried out by contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and fluorescence microscopy measurements. The results show that this reaction is highly efficient, reversible, and mild and allows for immobilization of various sensitive functional groups. In addition, Langmuir-Blodgett lithography was used to generate structured SAMs. Site-selective immobilization of a fluorescent dye could be achieved by nitroxide exchange reactions.     

Spontaneous chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen in nanobubbles

Bulk nanobubbles (NBs) generated electrochemically by short voltage pulses of alternating polarity behave differently from those produced by regular methods. Only bubbles smaller than 200 nm are formed in the process, and their concentration is very high. Moreover, the bubbles containing both H₂ and O₂ gases disappear fast via the combustion reaction, although the reaction in such a small volume cannot happen according to the classical combustion theory. Experimental facts about these unusual NBs are reviewed, and current understanding of the observed phenomena is provided. Visualization methods of a cloud of NBs above the electrodes are briefly discussed. Experimental signatures demonstrating the reaction between the gases in NBs are considered. A surface-assisted mechanism proposed for the combustion reactions in restricted volumes with a high surface-to-volume ratio is discussed. It is explained how the same mechanism is able to describe the explosion of microbubbles that is observed at special conditions.     

Recent advances in reactions between arynes and organosulfur compounds

The recent progress made on transformations involving the reactions between aryne intermediates and organosulfur compounds has been reviewed. A wide variety of aromatic organosulfurs are now synthesizable by generating arynes in the presence of organosulfur compounds. Organosulfurs have distinctive reactivities with arynes, which depend on the sulfur atom’s valence state, that is, S(II), S(IV), and S(VI), as well as the presence or absence of other intra- or intermolecular reactive moieties. These novel transformations have enabled the diversity-oriented synthesis of unique aromatic organosulfurs that were once difficult to prepare by the conventional methods, paving the way for the development of molecules that are beneficial across numerous disciplines, including pharmaceutical science and materials science.     

Cascade reactions in total synthesis

The design and implementation of cascade reactions is a challenging facet of organic chemistry, yet one that can impart striking novelty, elegance, and efficiency to synthetic strategies. The application of cascade reactions to natural products synthesis represents a particularly demanding task, but the results can be both stunning and instructive. This Review highlights selected examples of cascade reactions in total synthesis, with particular emphasis on recent applications therein. The examples discussed herein illustrate the power of these processes in the construction of complex molecules and underscore their future potential in chemical synthesis.     

Asymmetric organocatalytic domino reactions

The current status of organic synthesis is hampered by costly protecting-group strategies and lengthy purification procedures after each synthetic step. To circumvent these problems, the synthetic potential of multicomponent domino reactions has been utilized for the efficient and stereoselective construction of complex molecules from simple precursors in a single process. In particular, domino reactions mediated by organocatalysts are in a way biomimetic, as this principle is used very efficiently in the biosynthesis of complex natural products starting from simple precursors. In this Minireview, we discuss the current development of this fast-growing field.     

Equilibrium constants of ion exchange reactions between fatty acid monolayers and dissolved counterions

Equations for equilibrium constants of ion exchange between fatty acid monolayers and subsolution counterions are derived. The approach of Matsubara et al. [4], where the monolayer is considered as a two-dimensional regular mixture is employed, but the different molar volumes of its components are taken into account. Using the equations obtained theK _ex values are calculated on the basis of published data on the monolayer composition in the systems Cd²⁺/HArch, Ba²⁺/HArch, Ca²⁺/HSt, Pb²⁺/ HSt and Cu²⁺/HSt. The stability constants of the corresponding soaps formed in the monolayer are also obtained.     

Mechanochemical reactions on poly (vinyl chloride)

This paper is concerned with molecular phenomena appearing during deformation of poly(vinyl chloride) under tensile stress conditions. By using indirect techniques (reactions with radical acceptors, with vinylic monomers, electron microscopy) the formation of free radicals, appearing as a consequence of splitting of chemical bonds, is evidenced. The amount of reacted radical acceptor or monomer was proved to be related to solution concentration and to the duration of mechanical stress.     

Indium triflate mediated tandem acetalisation-acetal exchange reactions under solvent-free conditions

Acyclic acetals and ketals undergo exchange reactions in the presence of catalytic quantities of indium(III) triflate and diols to generate the corresponding cyclic acetals and ketals in excellent yield. The protocol is rapid, employs mild conditions and can be adapted to employ solvent-free reaction conditions. We have further developed this methodology to encompass a tandem acetalisation-acetal exchange protocol which provides facile access to cyclic ketals from unreactive ketones also under very mild, solvent-free reaction conditions.     

Laccase initiated oxidative domino reactions for the efficient synthesis of 3,4-dihydro-7,8-dihydroxy-2H-dibenzofuran-1-ones

Laccase initiated domino reactions of cyclohexane-1,3-diones with catechols using air as an oxidant afford 3,4-dihydro-7,8-dihydroxy-2H-dibenzofuran-1-ones with yields ranging from 70% to 97%.     

Internal thermal reactions in minerals and materials

Rebuilding reactions of the internal structure of minerals and their artificial analogues are considered. Solid products of these reactions are formed within the structure of the parent substance. This factor determines the course of the reactions and product formation. The mechanism of internal thermal dissociation and rebuilding reactions of internal structure connected with segregation of chemical components and their redistribution (crystallization of multicomponent amorphous solids) is discussed. The internal pressure of gaseous decomposition products and rate of diffusion of chemical components are critical factors influencing kinetics of these processes. Diffusional mass transfer during internal structure rebuilding reactions is directed by acid-base interaction of the parent-structure components; this determines the stages of the reaction pathway.     

Chemical reactions occurring in the thermal treatment of polymer blends investigated by direct pyrolysis mass spectrometry: Polycarbonate/polybuthyleneterephthalate

The chemical reactions occurring in the thermal treatment of polycarbonate/polybuthyleneterephthalate (PC/PBT) blends have been investigated by gradual heating (10°C/min) using thermogravimetry and direct pyrolysis into the mass spectrometer. Exchange reactions occur already in the temperature range below 300°C but the transesterification equilibrium is affected by the evolution of thermal degradation products. Buthylenecarbonate, was detected in the first decomposition stage (320–380°C), which is evolved together with a series of cyclic compounds containing units of PC and PBT, in varying ratios. The overall thermal reaction evolves towards the formation of the most thermally stable polymer, i.e., a totally aromatic polyester (polymer III , Table I), which was found to be the end-product of the thermal processes occurring in the system investigated. The thermal decomposition products obtained from the PC/PBT blends in the range 320–600°C have mass sufficiently high to be structurally significant, since they contain at least one copolymer repeating unit. The reactions occurring in the thermal treatment of the PC/PBT blend are discussed in detail. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

Chemical reactions occurring in the thermal treatment of PC/PMMA blends

The chemical reactions occurring in the thermal treatment of bisphenol-A polycarbonate (PC) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) blends have been investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and thermogravimetry (TG). Our results suggest that in the melt-mixing of PC/PMMA blends, at 230°C, no exchange reactions occur and that only the depolymerization reaction of PMMA has been observed. In the presence of an ester-exchange catalyst (SnOBu₂), an exchange reaction was found to occur at 230°C, but no trace of PC/PMMA graft copolymer has been observed. Instead, an exchange reaction between the monomer methyl methacrylate (MMA), generated in the unzipping of PMMA chains, and the carbonate groups of PC has been suggested. This is due to the diffusion of MMA at the interface or even into the PC domains, where it can react with PC producing low molar mass PC oligomers bearing methacrylate and methyl carbonate chain ends and leaving the undecomposed PMMA chains unaffected. The TG curves of PC/PMMA blends prepared by mechanical mixing and by casting from THF show two separated degradation steps corresponding to that of homopolymers. This behavior is different from that of a transparent film of PC/PMMA blend, obtained by solvent casting from DCB/CHCl₃, which shows a single degradation step indicating that the degradation rate of PC is increased by the presence of PMMA in the blend. The thermal degradation products obtained by DPMS of this blend consist of methyl methacrylate (MMA), cyclic carbonates arising from the degradation of PMMA and PC, respectively, and a series of open chain bisphenol-A carbonate oligomers with methacrylate and methyl carbonate terminal groups. The presence of the latter compounds suggests a thermally activated exchange reaction occurring above 300°C between MMA and PC. The presence of bisphenol-A carbonate oligomers bearing methyl ether end groups, generated by a thermally activated decarboxylation of the methyl carbonate end groups of PC, has also been observed among the pyrolysis products. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 36: 1873–1884, 1998     

Competing reaction pathways from α-halo-α-protioalkyl aryl sulfoxides initiated by organometallic reagents

The reactions of syn-1-haloethyl p-chlorophenyl sulfoxides (halogen = Cl, Br) with main-group organometallic reagents (n-BuMgCl, MeLi, n-BuLi, s-BuLi, and t-BuLi) in THF and PhMe solvents were examined. Product distributions were analyzed to determine the extent of competing sulfoxide ligand exchange, halogen-metal exchange, and deprotonation reaction pathways. A combination of t-BuLi in PhMe was optimal for initiation of sulfoxide ligand exchange from syn-1-chloroethyl p-chlorophenyl sulfoxide.     

Organo-lithiation and halogen metal exchange reactions in organic synthesis-an anomolous aromatic substitution via halogen-metal exchange

Synthesis via organo-lithium compounds is reviewed. An anomalous aromatic substitution via halogen-metal exchange is described. Here, the substitution does not occur at the position where the halogen was present; but at an alternate position. A mechanism is advanced, in which the halogen-metal exchange is proposed as being faster than the hydrogen(acidic)-metal exchange.