Synthesis of rhodium complexes derived from benzimidazolin-2-ylidene ligands and first used for the addition of arylboron to benzonitriles

Benzimidazolium salts and their new rhodium complexes ([Rh(COD)(NHC)Cl]) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and IR spectroscopy. The addition of arylboron to benzonitriles in the presence of a catalytic amount of rhodium NHC complexes was examined. Corresponding carbonyl compounds were obtained in good yields. This method allows for the preparation of a wide variety of carbonyl compounds in moderate to excellent yields and displays a high level of activity for the addition of arylboron to nitriles.