An air-stable [Cu(NHC)(OR)] (R = C(H)(CF3)2) complex for C–H, N–H and S–H bond activation

The synthesis, isolation and full characterisation of a [Cu(IPr)(OC(H)(CF₃)₂)] (IPr = 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene) complex are reported. This new Cu(I) complex is a versatile synthon and can activate numerous X-H bonds including C-H, N-H and S-H bonds. [Cu(IPr)(OC(H)(CF₃)₂)] was investigated as a pre-catalyst in several catalytic reactions.