Photo-decarbonylation of aldehydes by trans-W(N2)2(dppe)2 at room temperature

Abstract

Despite great advances in decarbonylation of aldehydes using noble metals, the reaction is largely limited to high reaction temperatures and displays poor functional group tolerance. Herein, we report photo-irradiated decarbonylation of aldehydes, promoted by trans-W(N₂)₂(dppe)₂, at room temperature. A wide range of substrates with diverse functional groups underwent decarbonylation efficiently to give the corresponding arene and alkane products in moderate to high yields.