On‐Line Reaction Monitoring and Mechanistic Studies by Mass Spectrometry: Negishi Cross‐Coupling, Hydrogenolysis, and Reductive Amination

Reaction monitoring using inductive ESI mass spectrometry allows chemical reactions to be tracked in real time, including air- and moisture-sensitive as well as heterogeneous reactions. Highly concentrated solutions can also be monitored for long periods without emitter clogging. Sheath gas assists in nebulization and a sample splitter reduces the delay time and minimizes contamination of the instrument. Short-lived intermediates (ca. 5 s) were observed in Pd/C-catalyzed hydrogenolysis, and several intermediates were seen in Negishi cross-coupling reactions.