Controlling selectivity in the Ullmann reaction on Cu(111).

Using a surface science approach, the selectivity in the Ullmann cross-coupling of aryl halides on Cu(111) has been understood and controlled. The binding strength of the reactants and repulsion between them dictates which organometallic intermediates form, and hence the product distribution. Cross coupling can be maximized at low reactant concentrations.

Nanoscale insight into C-C coupling on cobalt nanoparticles.

The Ullmann coupling of bromobenzene to biphenyl on Co nanoparticles proceeds below room temperature via an intermediate in which phenyl groups are bound directly to metallic Co. A similar surface-bound benzyl intermediate is observed for coupling of benzylbromide to bibenzyl on Co.