Recent advances in the application of group–10 transition metal based catalysts in C–H activation and functionalization

The importance of C–H bond activation in a simple molecule to form a molecule with enhanced functionality can be easily understood from a study of biological processes at a molecular level where, for example, a specific enzyme selectively activates a chemically inert C–H bond and functionalises it to a useful product. This strategy is now being used for large scale industrial processes and has both social and environmental benefits. C–H bond functionalization is also of major importance in catalysis because of the possibility of constructing complex structural motifs from relatively simple precursors. However, functionalization of a chemically inert C–H bond needs specific catalysts or reaction conditions that can selectively activate a particular C–H bond, leaving others intact. To achieve this target, various metal catalyzed or mediated reactions have been employed. Keeping the growing importance of this emerging field in mind, we now present recent advances in the field of C–H activation and functionalization using group 10 transition metal catalysts. Attempts have also been made to discuss the future of group 10 transition metals in catalysis.