A Microwave-Assisted Heck Reaction: Modifying Conventional Heating Protocols

Introduction

Nearly any conventionally heated synthetic transformation can be adapted for microwave heating. The power of microwave irradiation has been harnessed in nanomaterial assembly, polymerization reactions, and small molecule synthesis, compatible with air-sensitive reagents and transition-metal catalysts. Benefits of microwave heating include decreased waste generation and increased product purity. Perhaps the largest benefit of microwave-assisted synthesis, however, is the dramatic reduction of reaction time. Because modern microwave reactors like the Discover SP can safely maintain high-pressure atmospheres, reactions can be performed at temperatures exceeding reflux, expediting reaction rates and reducing reaction times.