Iridium-Catalyzed Silylation

This chapter delves into the significant advancements in iridium-catalyzed silylation processes, a cornerstone in the synthesis of organosilanes. It begins with an introduction to the importance of organosilanes in materials science and organic synthesis, emphasizing their versatile reactivity. The chapter then focuses on the hydrosilylation of unsaturated bonds, including ketones, alkenes, alkynes, and cyclopropanes, showcasing the selectivity and efficiency of iridium catalysts. Notably, it discusses the inversion of absolute configuration observed in the hydrosilylation of ketones catalyzed by iridium compared to rhodium. The chapter also explores dehydrogenative silylation reactions, which enable the functionalization of C–H bonds in alkanes, arenes, and heteroarenes, demonstrating the potential of these methods for the synthesis of complex molecules. Throughout, the chapter provides insights into the reaction mechanisms and highlights the unique properties of iridium catalysts, making it a valuable resource for researchers and professionals in the field of organic synthesis and catalysis.