Cross metathesis (CM) is a widely used tool in organic synthesis, allowing for the construction of carbon-carbon double bonds with high precision.  While such transformations have long been catalyzed by ruthenium and group 6 compounds, analogous transformations mediated by vanadium complexes have only recently been disclosed, and demonstrate conversions too low to allow for widespread adoption.  In order to allow abundant and inexpensive vanadium to be employed for CM in organic synthesis, the source of this low conversion must be identified.  Herein, we demonstrate experimentally and computationally that the main cause is decomposition via β-hydride elimination, and recommend strategies to limit this undesired reaction pathway.

Decomposition of vanadium(V) alkylidenes relevant to olefin metathesis

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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