N,N-Dimethylformamide: much more than a solvent

Synthesis of indole-linked β-cyano-enones: a pathway to indolyl-2-pyrrolones

Herein, we report for the first time an additive- and catalyst-free dehydrogenative multicomponent reaction of arylglyoxal, malononitrile, and indoles for the one-pot synthesis of indole-linked β-cyano-enones in DMF medium. The reaction was performed at 100 °C in DMF, forming one C-C single bond and one CC double bond in a single-flask. Furthermore, we developed an efficient method for the synthesis of indolyl-2-pyrrolones having a hydroxyl group-containing chiral carbon center from the β-cyano-enones using trifluoroacetic acid and water as reaction medium. The β-cyano-enones were also further transformed into indolyl-1,2-diketones via a base-mediated reaction, which yielded indolyl quinoxalines upon reaction with o-phenylenediamine (OPD).

Two-Step Synthesis of a Dolutegravir Intermediate DTG-6 in a Microfluidized Bed Cascade System: Route Design and Kinetic Study

In the existing two-step method for the preparation of DTG-6 (i.e., an important intermediate of the anti-HIV drug Dolutegravir (DTG)), a strong base is required to neutralize the homogeneous strong acid catalyst of the first step to make the reaction solution weakly acidic for the DTG-5 cyclization in the second step. The DTG-6 yield in the two-step synthesis is affected by the reaction of the strong base with the carboxyl group on the generated intermediate DTG-5. In this article, a solid acid catalyst, titanium cation-exchanged montmorillonite (Ti4+-mont), was used in the microfluidized bed to catalyze the conversion of DTG-4 to DTG-5. DTG-5 can be directly cyclized with (R)-3-aminobutanol (RABO) to form DTG-6 without the introduction of a strong base into the reaction solution. After the parametric screening on the flow rate, solid acid type, temperature, residence time, and solvent type, the DTG-6 yield increased from 90% (in our previous work) to 95% in the microfluidized bed cascade system. Due to the easy separation of heterogeneous catalyst, the utilization of a microfluidized bed not only simplified operations, but also improved synthetic efficiency. Moreover, the kinetics of the cyclization of unstable intermediate DTG-5 with RABO was investigated and verified by means of experimental data.

Solvation Structure and Dynamics of the Thiocyanate Anion in mixed N,N-Dimethylformamide-Water Solvents: A Molecular Dynamics Approach

The solvation structure and dynamics of the thiocyanate anion at infinite dilution in mixed N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF)-water liquid solvents was studied using classical molecular dynamics simulation techniques. The results obtained have indicated a preferential solvation of the thiocyanate anions by the water molecules, due to strong hydrogen bonding interactions between the anion and water molecules. A first hydration shell at short intermolecular distances is formed around the SCN- anion consisting mainly by water molecules, followed by a second shell consisting by both DMF and water molecules. The strong interactions between the thiocyanate anion and water molecules are further reflected upon the calculated intermittent residence lifetimes of water and DMF in the first and second solvation shells. The dependence of the reorientational relaxation times of the thiocyanate anion upon the mole fraction of DMF in the mixtures has been found to be in good agreement with experiment, revealing strong concentration effects upon these relaxation phenomena. An appreciable solvent composition effect upon the low frequency intermolecular vibrations, due to the anion-water interactions, has also been revealed by calculating the atomic velocity correlation functions and corresponding spectral densities of the anion.

NBS-mediated C(sp3)-H amidation of N,N-dimethylamides with N-acyloxyamides

Presented herein is the NBS-mediated amidation of the C(sp3)-H bond adjacent to the nitrogen atom of N,N-dimethylamide using N-acyloxyamide as the amide source, leading to a diverse array of methylenebisamides. The transformation features mild conditions, excellent functional group tolerance, and high efficiency. The practicality of the methodology was shown by gram-scale synthesis and efficient product derivatization. Preliminary study indicated that the amidation might be realized by cross coupling between nitrogen and carbon radicals.

One-pot synthesis of symmetrical bis-sulfonyl 2,6-diarylpyridines via BiCl3-catalyzed and K2S2O8-mediated domino annulation of β-ketosulfones and N,N-dimethylacetamide

In this study, BiCl3-promoted and K2S2O8-mediated synthesis of diverse bis-sulfonyl 2,6-diarypyridines was developed via one-pot stepwise (2C + 2C + 1C + 1N) annulation of two molecules of β-ketosulfone and N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC). In the entire process, DMAC acts as the synthon of one carbon and one nitrogen in the construction of the pyridine skeleton via cascade formation of single (C-C/C-N) and double (CC/CN) bonds under refluxing DMAC conditions.

Green Synthesis of a New Schiff Base Linker and Its Use to Prepare Coordination Polymers

Solid-state synthesis is an approach to organic synthesis that is desirable because it can offer minimal or no solvent waste, high yields, and relatively low energy footprints. Herein, we report the solid-state synthesis of a novel Schiff base, 4-{(E)-[(4-methylpyridin-3-yl)imino]methyl}benzoic acid (4-PIBZ), synthesized through the reaction of an amine and an aldehyde. 4-PIBZ was prepared via solvent-drop (water) grinding (SDG) on a multigram scale with 97% yield and was characterized using FTIR, 1H NMR, and SCXRD. The pyridyl and carboxylate moiety present in 4-PIBZ make it suitable for use as a linker ligand and indeed 4-PIBZ was found to coordinate with Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) cations, enabling it to serve as a linker ligand for the assembly of coordination polymers. 4-PIBZ thereby formed 1D (spiro chain) and 2D (square lattice, sql, topology) coordination polymers via solvent-induced (layering or slurry) methods. The resulting coordination polymers were characterized though X-ray diffraction (SCXRD, PXRD) and TGA, further demonstrating the utility of green synthesis methods for the preparation of some classes of new linker ligands that can in turn be used for the preparation of coordination polymers.

Total Electrosynthesis of N, N-Dimethylformamide From CO2 and NO3. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2025;12:e2414431. [PMID: 39573891 PMCID: PMC11727272 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202414431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Electrochemical C-N coupling presents a promising strategy for converting abundant small molecules like CO2 and NO3 - to produce low-carbon-intensity chemicals in a potentially more sustainable route. A prominent challenge is the limited product scope, particularly for organonitrogen chemicals featuring a variety of functional groups, alongside the limited understanding of plausible reaction mechanisms leading up to these products. In light of this, the total electrosynthesis method is reported for producing N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF), a widespread solvent and commodity chemical, from NO3 - and CO2. This method enabled a notable production rate of 1.24 mmol h-1 gcat -1 for DMF employing a hybrid Ag/Cu catalyst. Additionally, an impressive Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 28.6% is attained for DMF through oxidative coupling of dimethylamine using Ag/Cu catalyst. Through a distinctive retrosynthetic experimental analysis, the DMF synthesis pathway is systematically deconstructed, tracing its origins from dimethylamine to methylamine, and ultimately to CO2 and NO3 -. The investigation revealed that the hydrogenation of coupled intermediates proves to be the limiting step, rather than the C-N coupling steps in the synthetic pathway. Finally, using a combination of in situ measurements and retrosynthetic analysis, the possible mechanism is elucidated underlying DMF synthesis and identified subsequent routes for system improvement.

Two mixed-valent cerium oxo clusters: synthesis, structure, and self-assembly

Studies on cerium oxo clusters (CeOCs) are not only significant for understanding the redox and hydrolysis behaviors of Ce(III/IV) ions but also crucial for the rational synthesis of novel clusters and nanoceria with specific Ce(III)/Ce(IV) ratios. Here, two sets of reactions were conducted using cerium nitrate and H2O2-oxidized cerium nitrate, resulting in the formation of two distinct mixed-valent CeOCs [CeIII 4CeIV 10O14(OH)2(PhCO2)22(DMF)6] (Ce14) and [CeIII 2CeIV 22O28(OH)8(PhCO2)30(DMF)4] (Ce24C). These two clusters exhibit different structures and Ce(III)/Ce(IV) ratios, demonstrating the critical role of cerium oxidation states and the occurrence of redox reactions in cluster formation. Ce14 is the first tetradecanuclear CeOC with a novel structure, whereas Ce24C differed in its Ce(III)/Ce(IV) ratio, protonation levels of O atoms, and ligands from previously reported 24-nuclear CeOCs. Furthermore, various techniques were employed to investigate the formation process of these two clusters. X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) revealed that the white precipitates formed during the preparation of Ce14 contain Ce(III) ions, while the reddish-brown precipitates formed during the preparation of Ce24C contain a mixture of Ce(III) and Ce(IV) ions. These two precipitations were individually dissolved in N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF). The evolution of solution color and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectra over time revealed the gradual oxidation of partial Ce(III) ions by oxygen in the solution of the white precipitation. As Ce(IV) ions increased in this solution, time-resolved small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) data demonstrated the self-assembly of the Ce14 clusters after 4 days. In contrast, SAXS data and UV-Vis spectra revealed the rapid assembly of Ce24C clusters within 2 h due to the initial coexistence of Ce(IV) and Ce(III) ions in the DMF solution of the reddish-brown precipitation. The continued reduction of partial Ce(IV) ions in this solution does not affect Ce24C clusters' formation and stability. Our studies expand the family of CeOCs and enhance our understanding of the effects of cerium's oxidation states on cluster formation.

In Vitro Evaluation of New 5-Nitroindazolin-3-one Derivatives as Promising Agents against Trypanosoma cruzi

Chagas disease is a prevalent health problem in Latin America which has received insufficient attention worldwide. Current treatments for this disease, benznidazole and nifurtimox, have limited efficacy and may cause side effects. A recent study proposed investigating a wide range of nitroindazole and indazolone derivatives as feasible treatments. Therefore, it is proposed that adding a nitro group at the 5-position of the indazole and indazolone structure could enhance trypanocidal activity by inducing oxidative stress through activation of the nitro group by NTRs (nitroreductases). The study results indicate that the nitro group advances free radical production, as confirmed by several analyses. Compound 5a (5-nitro-2-picolyl-indazolin-3-one) shows the most favorable trypanocidal activity (1.1 ± 0.3 µM in epimastigotes and 5.4 ± 1.0 µM in trypomastigotes), with a selectivity index superior to nifurtimox. Analysis of the mechanism of action indicated that the nitro group at the 5-position of the indazole ring induces the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which causes apoptosis in the parasites. Computational docking studies reveal how the compounds interact with critical residues of the NTR and FMNH2 (flavin mononucleotide reduced) in the binding site, which is also present in active ligands. The lipophilicity of the studied series was shown to influence their activity, and the nitro group was found to play a crucial role in generating free radicals. Further investigations are needed of derivatives with comparable lipophilic characteristics and the location of the nitro group in different positions of the base structure.

Strategy for Simple Control of High Performance PQ/PMMA Holographic Media

Holographic data storage technology is a cost-effective solution for long-term archival data storage. However, the development of suitable holographic recording materials remains a challenge. Among these materials, phenanthraquinone-doped poly(methyl methacrylate) (PQ/PMMA) stands out due to its low cost and controllable thickness. Nevertheless, its limited photosensitivity and diffraction efficiency hinder its widespread application. In order to solve these problems, we put forward a kind of convenient and simple, low cost strategy, by adding plasticizer N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) for preparation of DMF-PQ/PMMA photopolymer, avoid the use of complex compounds. The addition of DMF not only influences the thermal polymerization stage but also forms weak interactions with PQ during the photoreaction process, thereby enhancing the holographic performance of DMF-PQ/PMMA. Consequently, we achieved a remarkable 9.1-fold increase in photosensitivity (from ∼0.35 to 3.18 cm J-1), improved diffraction efficiency by 20% (from 65% to 80%), and reduced volume shrinkage by a factor of 8 (from 0.4% to 0.05%). Furthermore, utilizing a collinear holographic storage system with multiplexing shift at a scale of 5 μm resulted in an impressively low minimum bit error rate (BER) of only 0.36% (with an average BER of 1.4%), highlighting the fast processing capability and potential for low BER applications in holographic information storage using DMF-PQ/PMMA.

Development of a practical formate/bicarbonate energy system

Liquid (organic) hydrogen carriers ([18H]-dibenzyltoluene, MeOH, formic acid, etc.) form a toolbox for the storage and transport of green hydrogen, which is crucial for the implementation of renewable energy technologies. Simple organic salts have been scarcely investigated for this purpose, despite many advantages such as low cost and minor toxicity, as well as easy handling. Here, we present a potassium formate/potassium bicarbonate hydrogen storage and release energy system, that is applicable and shows high stability (6 months). Utilizing ppm amounts of the molecularly defined Ru-5 complex, hydrogen release rates of up to 9.3 L h-1 were achieved. The same catalyst system promoted the hydrogenation of KHCO3 to HCOOK with a TON of 9650. In this way, combined hydrogen storage-release cycles can be performed for 40 times.

Sustainable Electrosynthesis of N,N-Dimethylformamide via Relay Catalysis on Synergistic Active Sites

Electrified synthesis of high-value organonitrogen chemicals from low-cost carbon- and nitrogen-based feedstocks offers an economically and environmentally appealing alternative to traditional thermocatalytic methods. However, the intricate electrochemical reactions at electrode surfaces pose significant challenges in controlling selectivity and activity, especially for producing complex substances such as N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). Herein, we tackle this challenge by developing relay catalysis for efficient DMF production using a composite WO2-NiOOH/Ni catalyst with two distinctive active sites. Specifically, WO2 selectively promotes dimethylamine (DMA) electrooxidation to produce strongly surface-bound (CH3)2N*, while nearby NiOOH facilitates methanol electrooxidation to yield more weakly bound *CHO. The disparity in binding energetics of the key C- and N-intermediates expedites C-N coupling at the WO2-NiOOH interface. In situ infrared spectroscopy with isotope-labeling experiments, quasi-in situ electron paramagnetic resonance trapping experiments, and electrochemical operating experiments revealed the C-N coupling mechanism and enhanced DMF-synthesis selectivity and activity. In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and postreaction transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies verified the stability of WO2-NiOOH/Ni during extended electrochemical operation. A Faradaic efficiency of ∼50% and a production rate of 438 μmol cm-2 h-1 were achieved at an industrially relevant current density of 100 mA cm-2 over an 80 h DMF production period. This study introduces a new paradigm for developing electrothermo relay catalysis for the sustainable and efficient synthesis of valuable organic chemicals with industrial potential.

Manganese(II) and Zinc(II) metal complexes of novel bidentate formamide-based Schiff base ligand: synthesis, structural characterization, antioxidant, antibacterial, and in-silico molecular docking study

A new bidentate Schiff base ligand (C16H16Cl2N4), condensation product of ethylene diamine and 4-chloro N-phenyl formamide, and its metal complexes [M(C16H16Cl2N4)2(OAc)2] (where M = Mn(II) and Zn(II)) were synthesized and characterized using various analytical and spectral techniques, including high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), elemental analysis, ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, AAS, molar conductance, 1H NMR, and powder XRD. All the compounds were non-electrolytes and nanocrystalline. The synthesized compounds were assessed for antioxidant potential by DPPH radical scavenging and FRAP assay, with BHT serving as the positive control. Inhibitory concentration at 50% inhibition (IC50) values were calculated and used for comparative analysis. Furthermore, the prepared compounds were screened for antibacterial activity against two Gram-negative bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and two Gram-positive bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) using disk-diffusion methods, with amikacin employed as the standard reference. The comparison of inhibition zones revealed that the complexes showed better antibacterial activity than the ligand. To gain insights into the molecular interactions underlying the antibacterial activity, the ligand and complexes were analyzed for their binding affinity with S. aureus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (PDB ID: 1JIL) and S. typhi cell membrane protein OmpF complex (PDB ID: 4KR4). These analyses revealed robust interactions, validating the observed antibacterial effects against the tested bacterial strains.

Effect of a solvothermal method using DMF on the dispersibility of rGO, application of rGO as a CDI electrode material, and recovery of sp2-hybridized carbon

Graphene is prized for its large surface area and superior electrical properties. Efforts to maximize the electrical conductivity of graphene commonly result in the recovery of sp2-hybridized carbon in the form of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). However, rGO shows poor dispersibility and aggregation when mixed with other materials without hydrophilic functional groups, This could lead to electrode delamination, agglomeration, and reduced efficiency. This study focuses on the impact of solvothermal reduction on the dispersibility and capacitance of rGO compared with chemical reduction. The results show that the dispersibility of rGO-D obtained through solvothermal reduction using N,N-dimethylformamide improved compared to that obtained through chemical reduction (rGO-H). Furthermore, when utilized as a material for CDI, an improvement in deionization efficiency was observed in the AC@rGO-D-based CDI system compared to AC@rGO-H and AC. However, the specific surface area, a key factor affecting CDI efficiency, was higher in rGO-H (249.572 m2 g-1) than in rGO-D (150.661 m2 g-1). While AC@rGO-H is expected to exhibit higher deionization efficiency due to its greater specific surface area, the opposite was observed. This highlights the effect of the improved dispersibility of rGO-D and underscores its potential as a valuable material for CDI applications.

Facile synthesis of rapamycin‐loaded PEG‐b‐PLA nanoparticles and their application in immunotherapy

Poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(lactide) (PEG‐b‐PLA) micro‐ and nanoparticles (NPs) have been intensively investigated for applications in biomedicine, due to their inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability, which allows them to be used as sustained release systems. Current methods for preparing PEG‐b‐PLA NPs typically require two different steps that include polymer synthesis and NP assembly, with the necessary intermediate polymer purification and the use of a variety of organic solvents in the process. In order to facilitate the biomedical application of PEG‐b‐PLA NPs, it is of great interest to develop a strategy to formulate the NPs in a simplified manner. Here, we report a straightforward method to construct PEG‐b‐PLA NPs through a sequential two‐step process without intermediate work‐up, which involves synthesizing the polymer in a water‐miscible organic solvent that is, N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF), followed by addition of water to the polymer solution. In this way, large NPs (~600 nm) were prepared. We comprehensively characterized the NPs using turbidity studies, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. We further demonstrated the ability of the NPs to encapsulate drugs, exemplified in the immunotherapeutic agent rapamycin, with relatively high encapsulation efficiency. In vitro drug release tests showed that rapamycin‐encapsulating NPs had comparable sustained‐release profiles at different pH conditions, highlighting the broad application window of our NP platform. Moreover, in vitro T cell suppression assays revealed that rapamycin‐loaded NPs exhibited similar inhibitory performance to free rapamycin on CD8+ cells at all rapamycin concentrations and on CD4+ cells at high and intermediate rapamycin concentrations, while the performance of the NPs was superior on CD4+ at low rapamycin concentration. Overall, this work provides a route for the scalable synthesis of biocompatible PEG‐b‐PLA NPs, which can be extended to other polymeric NPs, with potential in biomedical applications such as immunotherapy.

Vitrification-enabled enhancement of proton conductivity in hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks

Hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) are versatile materials with potential applications in proton conduction. Traditional approaches involve incorporating humidity control to address grain boundary challenges for proton conduction. This study finds vitrification as an alternative strategy to eliminate grain boundary effect in HOFs by rapidly melt quenching the kinetically stable HOF-SXU-8 to glassy state HOF-g. Notably, a remarkable enhancement in proton conductivity without humidity was achieved after vitrification, from 1.31 × 10-7 S cm-1 to 5.62× 10-2 S cm-1 at 100 °C. Long term stability test showed negligible performance degradation, and even at 30 °C, the proton conductivity remained at high level of 1.2 × 10-2 S cm-1. Molecule dynamics (MD) simulations and X-ray total scattering experiments reveal the HOF-g system is consisted of three kinds of clusters, i.e., 1,5-Naphthalenedisulfonic acid (1,5-NSA) anion clusters, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) molecule clusters, and H+-H2O clusters. In which, the H+ plays an important role to bridge these clusters and the high conductivity is mainly related to the H+ on H3O+. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing HOFs, enabling efficient proton conduction, and advancing energy conversion and storage devices.

Electro-oxidative Methylation of 2-Isocyanobiaryls Using N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as Carbon Source: Synthesis of 6-Methylphenanthridines

A benign electrochemical method to access 6-methylphenanthridines from 2-isocyanobiaryls using N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as a methyl source is reported. The protocol operates at ambient temperature without the need for harmful methylating reagents. Mechanistic studies suggested that DMF delivered a methylene synthon, followed by reduction at the cathode and tautomerization. The method offers environmental benefits by avoiding metal-based reagents and harsh conditions.

Scaling-Up Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Highly Defective Pd@UiO-66-NH2 Catalysts for Selective Olefin Hydrogenation under Ambient Conditions

The need to develop green and cost-effective industrial catalytic processes has led to growing interest in preparing more robust, efficient, and selective heterogeneous catalysts at a large scale. In this regard, microwave-assisted synthesis is a fast method for fabricating heterogeneous catalysts (including metal oxides, zeolites, metal-organic frameworks, and supported metal nanoparticles) with enhanced catalytic properties, enabling synthesis scale-up. Herein, the synthesis of nanosized UiO-66-NH2 was optimized via a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method to obtain defective matrices essential for the stabilization of metal nanoparticles, promoting catalytically active sites for hydrogenation reactions (760 kg·m-3·day-1 space time yield, STY). Then, this protocol was scaled up in a multimodal microwave reactor, reaching 86% yield (ca. 1 g, 1450 kg·m-3·day-1 STY) in only 30 min. Afterward, Pd nanoparticles were formed in situ decorating the nanoMOF by an effective and fast microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, resulting in the formation of Pd@UiO-66-NH2 composites. Both the localization and oxidation states of Pd nanoparticles (NPs) in the MOF were achieved using high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The optimal composite, loaded with 1.7 wt % Pd, exhibited an extraordinary catalytic activity (>95% yield, 100% selectivity) under mild conditions (1 bar H2, 25 °C, 1 h reaction time), not only in the selective hydrogenation of a variety of single alkenes (1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-tridecene, cyclohexene, and tetraphenyl ethylene) but also in the conversion of a complex mixture of alkenes (i.e., 1-hexene, 1-tridecene, and anethole). The results showed a powerful interaction and synergy between the active phase (Pd NPs) and the catalytic porous scaffold (UiO-66-NH2), which are essential for the selectivity and recyclability.

Simple Functionalization of a Donor Monomer to Enhance Charge Transfer in Porous Polymer Networks for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

Porous polymer networks (PPNs) are promising candidates as photocatalysts for hydrogen production. Constructing a donor-acceptor structure is known to be an effective approach for improving photocatalytic activity. However, the process of how a functional group of a monomer can ensure photoexcited charges transfer and improve the hydrogen evolution rate (HER) has not yet been studied on the molecular level. Herein, we design and synthesize two kinds of triazatruxene (TAT)-based PPNs: TATR-PPN with a hexyl (R) group and TAT-PPN without the hexyl group, to understand the relationship between the presence of the functional group and charge transfer. The hexyl group on the TAT unit was found to ensure the transfer of photoexcited electrons from a donor unit to an acceptor unit and endowed the TATR-PPN with stable hydrogen production.

Phosphite-imidazole catalyzed N-formylation and N-acylation of amines

A novel and convenient method for the N-formylation reaction of amines with DMF as a formylating agent has been developed, utilizing a catalytic amount of diethyl phosphite/imidazole. Diethyl phosphite, as a nucleophilic catalyst, plays a significant role in this conversion. The presented method has a broad substrate scope, and various N-formyl products were obtained in good to excellent yields. Moreover, by using DMA instead of DMF, the N-acetylation reaction was also successful. The reaction of o-phenylenediamines with DMF afforded the corresponding benzimidazoles. Furthermore, N-sulfonyl amidines were obtained in good to excellent yields by the reaction of sulfonamides with DMF under similar conditions.

Characterization of an unanticipated indium-sulfur metallocycle complex

We have produced a novel indium-based metallocycle complex (In-MeSH), which we initially observed as an unanticipated side-product in metal-organic framework (MOF) syntheses. The serendipitously synthesized metallocycle forms via the acid-catalysed decomposition of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) during solvothermal reactions in the presence of indium nitrate, dimethylformamide and nitric acid. A search through the Cambridge Structural Database revealed isostructural zinc, ruthenium and palladium metallocycle complexes formed by other routes. The ruthenium analogue is catalytically active and the In-MeSH structure similarly displays accessible open metal sites around the outside of the ring. Furthermore, this study also gives access to the relatively uncommon oxidation state of In(II), the targeted synthesis of which can be challenging. In(II) complexes have been reported as having potentially important applications in areas such as catalytic water splitting.

Palladium-catalyzed C-H dimethylamination of 1-chloromethyl naphthalenes with N,N-dimethylformamide as the dimethyl amino source

Palladium-catalyzed remote C-H dimethylamination of 1-chloromethylnaphthalenes using N,N-dimethylformamide as the dimethylamino source is described for the first time. The dimethylamination took place exclusively at the 4-position of 1-chloromethylnaphthalenes in 2-methyltetrahydrofuran under mild conditions to afford 1-(N,N-dimethylamino)-4-alkylnaphthalenes in good to high yields. The halogen atom remained intact during the dimethylamination of 1-chloromethylnaphthalenes. A P,N bidentate ligand was conveniently synthesized and successfully utilized as the ligand in the Kumada-Corriu reaction.

Cobalt-Catalyzed Chemoselective Reduction of N-Heteroaryl Ketones with N,N-Dimethylformamide as a Hydride Source

A method for chemoselective reduction of 2-pyridyl ketones and related N-heteroaryl compounds catalyzed by cobalt stearate using DMF as a hydride source is developed. The ketone substrate is activated by chelation with cobalt, which makes the present method highly chemoselective. A possible reaction mechanism is proposed on the basis of control experiments.

In Situ-Generated CuI Catalytic System for Oxidative N-Formylation of N-Heterocycles and Acyclic Amines with Methanol

The development of a sustainable and simple catalytic system for N-formylation of N-heterocycles with methanol by direct coupling remains a challenge, owing to many competing side reactions, given the sensitivity of N-heterocycles to many catalytic oxidation or dehydrogenation systems. This work concerns the development of an in situ-generated Cu^I catalytic system for oxidative N-formylation of N-heterocycles with methanol that is based on the case study of a more typical 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline as substrate. Aside from N-heterocycles, some acyclic amines are also transformed into the corresponding N-formamides in moderate yields. Furthermore, a probable reaction mechanism and reaction pathway are proposed and extension of work based on some findings leads to a demonstration that the formed ⋅O₂ ^- and ⋅OOH radicals in the catalytic system is related to the formation of undesired tar-like products.

An Investigation into the Effects of Electric Field Uniformity on Electrospun TPU Fiber Nano-Scale Morphology

ANSYS Maxwell was used to replicate the conditions of two potential electrospinning configurations: a needle-plate and a parallel-plate configuration. Simulations showed that the electric field generated within the parallel-plate configuration was much more uniform than that within the needle-plate configuration. Both configurations were assembled and used electrospin fibers at three different spinning distances (10 cm, 12 cm, and 15 cm), at a consistent electric field strength of 1.7 kV/cm. Scanning electron microscopy was used to compare the morphologies of the fibers produced in both configurations in order to confirm whether a more uniform electric field yielded thinner fibers. The results show that the needle-plate configuration produced finer fibers than the parallel-plate configuration at all three spinning distances. However, there was no difference in the fiber diameters produced at the 12 and 15 cm spinning distances within the needle-plate configuration, implying thinning may only occur up to a certain distance in this configuration.

Room-Temperature Dialkylamination of Chloroheteroarenes Using a Cu(II)/PTABS Catalytic System

The dimethylamino functionality has significant importance in industrially relevant molecules and methodologies to install these efficiently are highly desirable. We report herein a highly efficient, room-temperature dimethylamination of chloroheteroarenes performed via the in-situ generation of dimethylamine using N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as precursor wiith a large substrate scope that includes various heteroarenes, purines as well as commercially relevant drugs such as altretamine, ampyzine and puromycin precursor.

Glycolaldehyde as a Bio-Based C1 Building Block for Selective N-Formylation of Secondary Amines

Biomass derived glycolaldehyde was employed as C1 building block for the N-formylation of secondary amines using air as oxidant. The reaction is atom economic, highly selective and proceeds under catalyst free conditions. This strategy can be used for the synthesis of cyclic and acyclic formylamines, including DMF. Mechanistic studies suggest a radical oxidation pathway.

Catalytic Direct Cyanomethylenation of C(sp3)-H Bonds via a One-Step Double C-C Bond Formation

An elegant and catalytic procedure for the one-step cyanomethylenation of C(sp³)-H bonds adjacent to benzazoles and ketones is described herein using DMF as a C-1 unit and TMSCN as the cyanide source. The copper-mediated reaction between DMF and TMSCN gives a cyanomethylene radical intermediate that reacts with 2-alkylbenzazoles or alkylketones to furnish desired cyanomethylenated compounds under palladium catalysis. Subsequent interconversion of cyanomethylenated products makes the protocol synthetically attractive.

Silver(i)-catalyzed oxidative coupling of hydrosilanes with DMF to symmetrical and unsymmetrical disiloxanes

An alternative route to symmetrical and unsymmetrical disiloxanes, utilizing a 0.5% AgNTf2 catalyst to enable oxidative coupling of hydrosilanes with DMF as an oxygen source, is reported.

A Hg(i) corrugated sheet assembled by auxiliary dioxole groups and Hg⋯π interactions

Comproportionation between Hg0 and Hg2+ resulted in the formation of [Hg2(Pip)2] supported by Hg⋯Odioxole and Hg⋯π interactions. Structural and computational assessment determined the tendency of Hg(i) to partake in Hg⋯π interactions.

Supported CuII Single-Ion Catalyst for Total Carbon Utilization of C2 and C3 Biomass-Based Platform Molecules in the N-Formylation of Amines

The shift from fossil carbon sources to renewable ones is vital for developing sustainable chemical processes to produce valuable chemicals. In this work, value‐added formamides were synthesized in good yields by the reaction of amines with C₂ and C₃ biomass‐based platform molecules such as glycolic acid, 1,3‐dihydroxyacetone and glyceraldehyde. These feedstocks were selectively converted by catalysts based on Cu‐containing zeolite 5A through the in situ formation of carbonyl‐containing intermediates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example in which all the carbon atoms in biomass‐based feedstocks could be amidated to produce formamide. Combined catalyst characterization results revealed preferably single Cu^II sites on the surface of Cu/5A, some of which form small clusters, but without direct linking via oxygen bridges. By combining the results of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin‐trapping, operando attenuated total reflection (ATR) IR spectroscopy and control experiments, it was found that the formation of formamides might involve a HCOOH‐like intermediate and ^.NHPh radicals, in which the selective formation of ^.OOH radicals might play a key role.

A Perspective on Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Selective Oxidation of Alcohols

Selective oxidation of higher alcohols using heterogeneous catalysts is an important reaction in the synthesis of fine chemicals with added value. Though the process for primary alcohol oxidation is industrially established, there is still a lack of fundamental understanding considering the complexity of the catalysts and their dynamics under reaction conditions, especially when higher alcohols and liquid-phase reaction media are involved. Additionally, new materials should be developed offering higher activity, selectivity, and stability. This can be achieved by unraveling the structure-performance correlations of these catalysts under reaction conditions. In this regard, researchers are encouraged to develop more advanced characterization techniques to address the complex interplay between the solid surface, the dissolved reactants, and the solvent. In this mini-review, we report some of the most important approaches taken in the field and give a perspective on how to tackle the complex challenges for different approaches in alcohol oxidation while providing insight into the remaining challenges.

N,N-Dimethylformamide as Carbon Synthons for the Synthesis of N-Heterocycles: Pyrrolo/Indolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines and Quinazolin-4-ones

N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as synthetic precursors contributing especially the methyl, acyl, and amino groups has played a significant role in heterocycle syntheses and functionalization. In this protocol, a wide range of pyrrolo/indolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines and quinazolin-4-ones were obtained in moderate to good yields by using elemental iodine without any metal or peroxides. We considered that N-methyl and N-acyl of DMF participate and complete the reaction separately through different mechanisms, which displayed potential still to be explored of DMF.

Copper-Mediated ortho-C-H Amination Using DMF as the Amine Source

We report herein a copper-mediated ortho-C-H amination of anilines using oxalamide as the directing group and DMF as the amination reagent. This protocol tolerates various functional groups and shows good heterocyclic compatibility. Late-stage dimethylamination of drugs demonstrated the synthetic practicality of the protocol. Mechanistic experiments indicate that a radical pathway may be involved in the reaction.

A Journey from June 2018 to October 2021 with N,N-Dimethylformamide and N,N-Dimethylacetamide as Reactants

A rich array of reactions occur using N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) or N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) as reactants, these two amides being able to deliver their own H, C, N, and O atoms for the synthesis of a variety of compounds. This account highlights the literature published since June 2018, completing previous reviews by the author.

Visible-light-promoted synthesis of secondary and tertiary thiocarbamates from thiosulfonates and N-substituted formamides

A general visible-light-promoted metal-free synthesis of secondary and tertiary thiocarbamates starting from thiosulfonates and N-substituted formamides is developed. By employing rhodamine B as a photocatalyst and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant, a wide scope of thiocarbamates can be obtained through direct thiolation of acyl C-H bonds under irradiation of blue light at room temperature for 12 h.

New Coordination Polymers of Selected Lanthanides with 1,2-Phenylenediacetate Linker: Structures, Thermal and Luminescence Properties

Solvothermal reactions of lanthanide (III) salts with 1,2-phenylenediacetic acid in N,N'-dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent lead to the formation of the metal complexes of the general formula Ln₂(1,2-pda)₃(DMF)₂, where Ln(III) = Pr(1), Sm(2), Eu(3), Tb(4), Dy(5), and Er(6), 1,2-pda = [C₆H₄(CH₂COO)₂]^2-. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods, thermal analysis methods (TG-DSC and TG-FTIR), infrared and luminescence spectroscopy. They exhibit structural similarity in the two groups (Pr, Sm, and Eu; Tb, Dy, and Er), which was reflected in their thermal behaviours and spectroscopic properties. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies reveal that Sm(2) and Eu(3) complexes form 2D coordination polymers with four crystallographically independent metal centers. Every second lanthanide ion is additionally coordinated by two DMF molecules. The 1,2-phenylenediacetate linker shows different denticity being: penta- and hexadentate while carboxylate groups exhibit bidentate-bridging, bidentate-chelating, and three-dentate bridging-chelating modes. The infrared spectra reflect divergence between these two groups of complexes. The complexes of lighter lanthanides contain in the structure coordinated DMF molecules, while in the structures of heavier complexes, DMF molecules appear in the inner and outer coordination sphere. Both carboxylate groups are deprotonated and engaged in the coordination of metal centers but in different ways in such groups of complexes. In the groups, the thermal decomposition of the isostructural complexes occurs similarly. Pyrolysis of complexes takes place with the formation of such gaseous products as DMF, carbon oxides, ortho-xylene, ethers, water, carboxylic acids, and esters. The complexes of Eu and Tb exhibit characteristic luminescence in the VIS region, while the erbium complex emits NIR wavelength.