Role of Benzylic Deprotonation in Nickel-Catalyzed Benzylic Dehydrogenation

<p>Alkylarenes are readily functionalized via the corresponding&nbsp;benzylic anions. Benzylic anions have been used for a range of catalytic&nbsp;reactions, including Ni-catalyzed dehydrogenation. Interestingly, the&nbsp;employment of Zn(TMP)2 for slow and incomplete deprotonation of the&nbsp;benzylic position was observed. This manuscript describes a preliminary&nbsp;investigation into the deprotonation of heteroarenes and its relationship to Ni-catalyzed benzylic dehydrogenation.<br> &nbsp;</p>