Citation: Zitong Chen, Zipei Su, Jiangfeng Qian. Aromatic Alkali Metal Reagents: Structures, Properties and Applications[J]. University Chemistry, ;2024, 39(8): 149-162. doi: 10.3866/PKU.DXHX202311054 shu

Aromatic Alkali Metal Reagents: Structures, Properties and Applications

College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China

Received Date: 16 November 2023
Revised Date: 1 February 2024

Aromatic alkali metal reagents are prepared through the spontaneous reaction between alkali metals and aromatic compounds in aprotic solvents. This reaction involves the transfer of electrons from the alkali metal to the aromatic compound, resulting in the formation of radical anions. The properties of aromatic alkali metal reagents vary depending on the choice of aromatic compounds, alkali metals, and aprotic solvents. These reagents have found extensive applications in fields such as anionic polymerization, chemical prelithiation of electrode materials and ion-intercalation-assisted exfoliation of two-dimensional materials. Despite their promising applications, the introduction of aromatic alkali metal compounds in most basic chemistry textbooks is limited. This article aims to address this gap by providing a comprehensive review of the structure, properties, and recent advances in the application of aromatic alkali metal reagents. By expanding the coverage of these reagents in teaching, it will contribute to broadening students’ understanding of cutting-edge scientific research, enhancing their scientific literacy, and promoting the reform of undergraduate chemistry education.
- Electron transfer reaction,
- Aromatic compounds,
- Reducibility
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