Photogeneration and Visualization of a Surface-Stabilized Dinitrene.

ABSTRACT: Nitrenes are known as key intermediates in various chemical reactions. Nitrene transfer reactions are particularly effective for synthesizing nitrogen-containing compounds, where metal catalysts play a crucial role in controlling nitrene reactivity and selectivity. In this study, we demonstrate the formation of a stable surface-supported dinitrene on Au(111) through UV irradiation of its diazide precursor, characterized by scanning probe techniques. The photoreaction mechanism is elucidated with wavelength-dependent experiments and time-dependent density functional theory calculations. Our findings present the first real-space visualization of a metal nitrene adsorbed on a surface, highlighting its potential in catalysis and surface functionalization.

SUBMITTER: Frezza F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12070354 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature