Hydrosilylationbased

Hydrosilylationbased refers to chemical processes or strategies that rely on hydrosilylation, the addition of a silicon-hydrogen bond across unsaturated carbon–carbon bonds to form organosilicon compounds. It is foundational in organosilicon chemistry and polymer chemistry, enabling the formation of silicon–carbon bonds under relatively mild conditions.

Catalysis and mechanism: Traditionally catalyzed by platinum-group complexes, notably Speier's and Karstedt catalysts, hydrosilylation often follows a Chalk–Harrod-type mechanism involving oxidative addition of Si–H to a metal, migratory insertion into a carbon–carbon multiple bond, and reductive elimination to form the Si–C bond. The reaction exhibits broad substrate scope, good chemoselectivity, and tolerance of many functional groups. Alternatives include heterogeneous systems and earth-abundant metals such as nickel, copper, and iron, offering cheaper options with varying selectivity and conditions. Enantioselective hydrosilylation has been demonstrated with chiral ligands in some systems.

Applications: Hydrosilylationbased approaches are central to silicone polymer production and crosslinking of vinyl-terminated polymers, as well as to surface modification with silane groups and the synthesis of organosilanes used as intermediates in materials science and pharmaceuticals. The method enables rapid formation of Si–C bonds and can be integrated into polymer processing and functionalization workflows.

Limitations and challenges: Catalyst sensitivity to air and moisture, the cost and availability of platinum catalysts, and the potential for over-reaction when multiple Si–H bonds are present pose practical considerations. Ongoing research seeks more robust catalysts, lower metal loadings, and enantioselective variants.