Scheme 2.

Synthesis of cationic monocarboxylate species 11–15 from bistriflates 9 a–d 12, 15 via mixed monotriflate/monocarboxylate complex 10 or in situ generation of cationic monotriflate species and subsequent salt metathesis. Synthesis of cationic monocarboxylate complexes 17 a,b from dichloride NHC alkylidenes 16 a,b.16 Ad=adamantyl.