The idea of guiding molecular transformations in organic chemistry through London dispersion forces has seen numerous examples in recent years. We here explore the question, whether properly placed dispersion energy donor (DED) units can alter the reactivity and selectivity patterns observed in Lewis base-catalyzed reactions of alcohols.<sup> </sup>For the acylation of secondary alcohols it can indeed be found that reaction rates for the Lewis base-catalyzed process increase with increasing size of the reacting alcohols. This can most easily be rationalized with transition state structures showing a close proximity between substrate alcohols and Lewis base catalysts.

Size-accelerated Lewis base catalysis

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.