Parallel chemistry investigations of ortho-directed hydrogen isotope exchange between substituted aromatics and isotopic water: novel catalysis by cyclooctadienyliridium(I)pentan-1,3-dionates

Novel iridium-based catalysts which promote ortho-directed hydrogen isotope exchange between substituted aromatics and isotopic water have been identified via a combination of screening and subsequent ligand optimisation. The catalysts are more active, operate at lower temperature and are applicable to a wider variety of substrates than previously known systems.