Recent developments in alkene hydrosilylation utilizing manganese catalysts

Hydrosilylation of alkenes is an important process in the synthesis of organosilicon compounds in which an Si–H species is added across a carbon–carbon double bond (C=C). Transition-metal catalysts, particularly those comprising noble metals, are conventionally used in hydrosilylation owing to their exceptional catalytic activities and selectivities. However, their scarcity, toxicity, and high cost (especially those of platinum catalysts) have necessitated the exploration for alternatives. Manganese, which is a low-toxic, low-cost, and earth-abundant metal, constitutes a promising substitute for precious metals in hydrosilylation reactions. Nevertheless, manganese-catalyzed alkene hydrosilylation has not been as extensively studied as that of other earth-abundant metals such as iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni). This digest paper summarizes recent advances in manganese-catalyzed hydrosilylation.