Zinc a double-edged sword when it comes to nickel catalysis

Zinc and nickel are known associates in catalysis. However, the role of zinc in nickel-catalysed reactions – a cheaper, greener alternative to palladium – remained little explored. Now, a new study has discovered that zinc favours certain unproductive pathways, such as the formation of metal clusters and oxidation events. Fully understanding these mechanistic secrets could lead to more efficient transformations.¹