Using hyperpolarised NMR and DFT to rationalise the unexpected hydrogenation of quinazoline to 3,4-dihydroquinazoline.

PHIP and SABRE hyperpolarized NMR methods are used to follow the unexpected metal-catalysed hydrogenation of quinazoline (Qu) to 3,4-dihydroquinazoline as the sole product. A solution of [IrCl(IMes)(COD)] in dichloromethane reacts with H2 and Qu to form [IrCl(H)2(IMes)(Qu)2] (2). The addition of methanol then results in its conversion to [Ir(H)2(IMes)(Qu)3]Cl (3) which catalyses the hydrogenation reaction.

A reactive nitrone-based organogel that self-assembles from its constituents in chloroform.

The reversible reaction of an aldehyde with a hydroxylamine affords a nitrone which is capable of forming a stiff gel with chloroform at concentrations as low as 0.20 wt% (6 mM). The gelator forms dynamically from its constituents and the gel assembly can be degraded in a controlled manner through a recognition-mediated reaction that targets the nitrone component of the gel network.