Vapour synthesis: A new technique in synthetic chemistry

Vapour synthesis is the use, as reagents, of vapours which are formed at high temperatures. Typically, vapours, such as those of transition metal atoms, are brought into contact on a cold surface with a substrate, for example an unsaturated hydrocarbon. The ensuing reaction can form compounds, typically organo-transition metal complexes. The principles and methodology are discussed critically to show the applicability of this technique to synthesis and research. A review of recent research illustrating the scope of vapour synthesis is given.