Synthetic Reactions Using Metal Powders under Microwave Irradiation

Liquid-phase synthetic reactions that require the use of metal powders are widely regarded as being unsuited to heating with microwave radiation, as they tend to exhibit destructive arcing. In a previous paper, we examined the factors that lead to arcing in these systems and, hence, how it may be controlled. This paper describes the application of those findings in a range of microwave-induced syntheses of organometallic and organic compounds, where metal powders are necessary. Although reaction yields were similar to those observed when conventional heating is used, the rapid nature of microwave heating leads to a slight reduction in reaction times.