Activation of C-F bonds using Cp*2ZrH2: a diversity of mechanisms

The activation of several types of carbon-fluorine bonds in alkanes, arenes and olefins, using the early transition metal complex Cp*2ZrH2, are described. Fluoroalkanes are reduced to alkanes. Alkyl and and even aryl adducts containing (beta)-fluorines undergo (beta)-fluorine elimination. Evidence is presented that (alpha)-fluorine elimination is also possible, and occurs in Cp*2Zr(CF3)H. The studies include mechanistic investigations, which show evidence for a variety of pathways depending on the specific substrate.