Assessment of the rich co-complexation chemistry of Ni(COD)₂ and PhLi has led to a new family of structurally diverse lithium nickelates being uncovered.
Combined stoichiometric, catalytic, and kinetic studies reveal that these heterobimetallic complexes are the key intermediates that facilitate the smooth C-O bond cleavage and cross-coupling of aryl ethers under mild conditions.

This work was carried out in the group of Prof. Dr. Eva Hevia.

References:

• A. M. Borys, E. Hevia;
  "The Anionic Pathway in the Nickel-Catalysed Cross-Coupling of Aryl Ethers"
  Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2021, 60(46), 24659-24667; doi:10.1002/anie.202110785.