Synthesis and comparative study of (NHCF)PdCl2Py and (NHCF)Ni(Cp)Cl complexes: investigation of the electronic properties of NHC ligands and complex characteristics

The electron-donating and electron-accepting properties of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands play a pivotal role in governing their interactions with transition metals, thereby influencing the selectivity and reactivity in catalytic processes. Herein, we report the synthesis of Pd/NHCF and Ni/NHCF complexes, wherein the electronic parameters of the NHC ligands were systematically varied. By performing a series of controlled structure modifications, we elucidated the influence of the σ-donor and π-acceptor properties of NHC ligands on interactions with the transition metals Pd and Ni and, consequently, the catalytic behavior of Pd and Ni complexes. The present study deepens our understanding of NHC-metal interactions and provides novel information for the rational design of efficient catalysts for organic synthesis.