Catalyst-free insertion of carbon monoxide into terminal Mg-C(sp3) bonds

Abstract

We describe the catalyst-free insertion of carbon monoxide (CO) into magnesium alkyl bonds, leading exclusively to enediolate compounds through C-C coupling. Computational investigations suggest a metallated ketene intermedate. Ultimately, the formed enedoliate fragment can be liberated on reaction with a silane, establishing a potential pathway for s-block metal alkyl formylation catalysis.