Methane activation by[LnO]^(+):the 4f orbital matters

Gas-phase reactions of[LnO]^(+)with methane have been studied by using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer(ICP-MS)combined with quantum chemical calculations.Experiments indicate that the[LnO]^(+)(Ln=Sm-Lu)ions are able to activate methane to generate methyl radicals.In particular,[EuO]^(+)and[YbO]^(+)exhibit the highest reactivity.Interestingly,ab initio computations reveal a novel HAT process operating in the absence of a terminal oxygen radical,as mediated by[EuO]^(+)and[YbO]^(+).Such a process diverges from previous findings on the methane activation by metal oxide clusters,not only on the electronic pattern during the course of hydrogen transfer,but also on the important role that 4f electrons play.The associated electronic origins have been discussed,and the well-designed 4f electron occupation may turn to be a promising approach in constructing lanthanide involved catalysts.