Using quantum chemical calculations, a Utrecht-Amsterdam team analyses the synthesis, reactivity and bond formation of nickel carbene complexes, reports Chemistry – A European Journal.

Catalysis with cheap transition metals is the dream of many chemists. Take nickel, for example. When it forms a double bond with, say, carbon (a carbene), it acts as an important intermediate in the synthesis of cyclopropane, for example. As always, it helps to know exactly how an intermediate looks, reacts and which ligand stabilises it. Researchers from Utrecht and Amsterdam joined forces to unravel the secrets of the nickel carbene complex.