A Highly Active Palladium(I) Dimer for Pharmaceutical Applications

The palladium(I) dimer, di-μ-bromobis(tri-tertbutylphosphine)dipalladium(I), [Pd(μ-Br)( Bu3P)]2, was synthesised and fully characterised by Mingos (1, 2). However, its potential as a unique C–C and C–N coupling catalyst (3) was first explored by Hartwig (6). It has emerged as one of the best third-generation coupling catalysts for cross-coupling reactions, including C–heteroatom coupling and α-arylations. In this review, the physical and chemical characteristics of the Pd(I) dimer as a catalyst material are discussed from a practical viewpoint, and up to date information on its applications in coupling catalysis is provided.