*Article* **Triel Bond Formed by Malondialdehyde and Its Influence on the Intramolecular H-Bond and Proton Transfer**

**Qiaozhuo Wu, Shubin Yang and Qingzhong Li \***

The Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China

**\*** Correspondence: lqz@ytu.edu.cn

**Abstract:** Malondialdehyde (MDA) engages in a triel bond (TrB) with TrX<sup>3</sup> (Tr = B and Al; X = H, F, Cl, and Br) in three modes, in which the hydroxyl O, carbonyl O, and central carbon atoms of MDA act as the electron donors, respectively. A H···X secondary interaction coexists with the TrB in the former two types of complexes. The carbonyl O forms a stronger TrB than the hydroxyl O, and both of them are better electron donors than the central carbon atom. The TrB formed by the hydroxyl O enhances the intramolecular H-bond in MDA and thus promotes proton transfer in MDA-BX<sup>3</sup> (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX<sup>3</sup> (X = halogen), while a weakening H-bond and the inhibition of proton transfer are caused by the TrB formed by the carbonyl O. The TrB formed by the central carbon atom imposes little influence on the H-bond. The BH<sup>2</sup> substitution on the central C-H bond can also realise the proton transfer in the triel-bonded complexes between the hydroxyl O and TrH<sup>3</sup> (Tr = B and Al).

**Keywords:** triel bond; hydrogen bonding; proton transfer; NBO

**Citation:** Wu, Q.; Yang, S.; Li, Q. Triel Bond Formed by Malondialdehyde and Its Influence on the Intramolecular H-Bond and Proton Transfer. *Molecules* **2022**, *27*, 6091. https://doi.org/10.3390/ molecules27186091

Academic Editor: Nagatoshi Nishiwaki

Received: 28 August 2022 Accepted: 15 September 2022 Published: 18 September 2022

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**Copyright:** © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ 4.0/).

#### **1. Introduction**

Malondialdehyde (MDA), a naturally occurring product in lipid peroxidation and prostaglandin biosynthesis [1], has been known as a biomarker of lipid oxidation induced by reactive oxygen species [2], a reliable biomarker for bipolar disorder [3], or an oxidative stress marker in oral squamous cell carcinoma [4]; thus, it has received much attention [5–13]. This molecule exhibits an intramolecular proton transfer with two equivalent forms separated by a barrier of medium height [5]. The intramolecular proton transfer in MDA involves a 2.2 kcal/mol lower barrier than that in its radical analogues [6]. When a NO<sup>2</sup> or BH<sup>2</sup> group is attached to the central carbon atom, the barrier is reduced to less than 1 kcal/mol [7]. Theoretical and experimental studies showed that 2-chloromalonaldehyde exhibits a weaker intramolecular H-bond than MDA [8,9]. However, the intramolecular H-bond in MDA is strengthened if strong electron donors and/or sterically hindered substituents are present in its two side carbon atoms [7]. The IR and UV spectra of MDA were also measured in the gas phase and water [10,11]. The MDA in water has a slightly red-shifted UV spectrum compared with that in the gas phase [10]. Tunnelling occurs in MDA, and its mechanisms can be understood through the isotope effect (IE), which is classified into primary IE and secondary IE [12]. The primary H/D kinetic IE on the intramolecular proton transfer in MDA is dominated by zero-point energy effects, and tunnelling plays a minor role at room temperature [13].

Intra- or intermolecular proton transfer reactions are considered to be one of the most fundamental and important processes in chemistry and biology, such as acid–base neutralisation reactions and enzymatic reactions [14]. The proton transfer in MDA can be regulated through cooperativity with other interactions. When a BeH<sup>2</sup> or BeF<sup>2</sup> group engages in a beryllium bond with the hydroxyl/carbonyl group of MDA, the intramolecular H-bond in MDA is strengthened or weakened [15], which is accompanied by the inhibition/promotion of proton transfer. This effect is also realised by adding F2SiO to MDA, where a tetrel bond is formed [16]. In general, the stronger the interaction imposed, the more prominent the

effect. The stronger interaction makes the binding distance of the weaker one undergo a larger change. have many of the characteristics of covalent bonds and can even be classified as typical covalent bonds [18]. Triel atoms are usually sp2-hybridised with a π–hole above and be-

inhibition/promotion of proton transfer. This effect is also realised by adding F2SiO to MDA, where a tetrel bond is formed [16]. In general, the stronger the interaction imposed, the more prominent the effect. The stronger interaction makes the binding dis-

A triel bond (TrB) is an attractive interaction that occurs between the triel atom such as B or Al and an electron donor [17]. Such interactions are usually so strong that they

*Molecules* **2022**, *27*, 6091 2 of 16

tance of the weaker one undergo a larger change.

A triel bond (TrB) is an attractive interaction that occurs between the triel atom such as B or Al and an electron donor [17]. Such interactions are usually so strong that they have many of the characteristics of covalent bonds and can even be classified as typical covalent bonds [18]. Triel atoms are usually sp<sup>2</sup> -hybridised with a π–hole above and below the molecular plane. Interestingly, when the sp<sup>2</sup> -hybridised triel atom binds to a strong Lewis base, it may become sp<sup>3</sup> -hybridised [19]. Thus, the trivalent centres in those complexes with such strong interactions follow the octet rule and can be classified as tetravalent centres, which usually have a tetrahedral structure, indicating a large geometric deformation of the interacting species, a feature of TrB formation. For example, an isolated BH<sup>3</sup> monomer has a planar triangular structure, while the BH3···NH<sup>3</sup> complex is tetrahedral [20]. This bond plays an important role in energy materials, chemical reactions, and biological systems [21–24]. For instance, the strong organoborane Lewis acid B(C6F5)<sup>3</sup> catalyses the hydrosilation of aromatic and aliphatic carbonyl functions at convenient rates, with loadings of 1−4% [22]. TrB also contributes to the molecular hydrogen release process, which has also been explored as a research topic related to hydrogen storage materials [23]. Thus, TrB has garnered more attention in recent years [25–35]. Although different types of electron donors are utilised in the TrBs [32–35], the most common ones are from molecules with lone pairs such as N and O. A comparison was made for the TrBs with different chalcogen electron donors (H2O, H2S, and H2Se), and it was found that H2O forms a stronger TrB [36]. This bond displays some different properties from H-bond. In HCN···HCN-BF3, where a TrB and H-bond coexist, the strong TrB suffers a larger shortening than the weaker H-bond [37]. Thus, it is interesting to study the influence of TrB on the intramolecular H-bond in MDA and its proton transfer. low the molecular plane. Interestingly, when the sp2-hybridised triel atom binds to a strong Lewis base, it may become sp3-hybridised [19]. Thus, the trivalent centres in those complexes with such strong interactions follow the octet rule and can be classified as tetravalent centres, which usually have a tetrahedral structure, indicating a large geometric deformation of the interacting species, a feature of TrB formation. For example, an isolated BH3 monomer has a planar triangular structure, while the BH3···NH3 complex is tetrahedral [20]. This bond plays an important role in energy materials, chemical reactions, and biological systems [21–24]. For instance, the strong organoborane Lewis acid B(C6F5)3 catalyses the hydrosilation of aromatic and aliphatic carbonyl functions at convenient rates, with loadings of 1−4% [22]. TrB also contributes to the molecular hydrogen release process, which has also been explored as a research topic related to hydrogen storage materials [23]. Thus, TrB has garnered more attention in recent years [25–35]. Although different types of electron donors are utilised in the TrBs [32–35], the most common ones are from molecules with lone pairs such as N and O. A comparison was made for the TrBs with different chalcogen electron donors (H2O, H2S, and H2Se), and it was found that H2O forms a stronger TrB [36]. This bond displays some different properties from H-bond. In HCN···HCN-BF3, where a TrB and H-bond coexist, the strong TrB suffers a larger shortening than the weaker H-bond [37]. Thus, it is interesting to study the influence of TrB on the intramolecular H-bond in MDA and its proton transfer. In this article, the complexes of MDA and TrX3 (Tr = B and Al; X = H, F, Cl, and Br)

In this article, the complexes of MDA and TrX<sup>3</sup> (Tr = B and Al; X = H, F, Cl, and Br) are studied. There are two types of oxygen atoms (hydroxyl and carbonyl O atoms) in MDA; thus, their ability to bind with a triel atom is compared. In addition, the central carbon atom has negative molecular electrostatic potentials (MEPs), as shown in Figure 1. Therefore, this negative MEP region also binds with TrX3, resulting in a π–π TrB. On the other hand, we focus on the influence of TrB on the intramolecular H-bond in MDA and the corresponding proton transfer. When a BH<sup>2</sup> group is attached to the central carbon atom, the barrier in the proton transfer reduces [7]. Thus, a combination of substitution and cooperative effects is used to regulate the proton transfer. are studied. There are two types of oxygen atoms (hydroxyl and carbonyl O atoms) in MDA; thus, their ability to bind with a triel atom is compared. In addition, the central carbon atom has negative molecular electrostatic potentials (MEPs), as shown in Figure 1. Therefore, this negative MEP region also binds with TrX3, resulting in a π–π TrB. On the other hand, we focus on the influence of TrB on the intramolecular H-bond in MDA and the corresponding proton transfer. When a BH2 group is attached to the central carbon atom, the barrier in the proton transfer reduces [7]. Thus, a combination of substitution and cooperative effects is used to regulate the proton transfer.

**Figure 1.** MEP maps of MDA. All are in a.u. **Figure 1.** MEP maps of MDA. All are in a.u.

#### **2. Results** ton transfer, and TrX3 can be added to MDA to form a TrB that in turn affects the proton

**2. Results** 

#### *2.1. Coplanar Triel-Bonded Complexes* transfer. As can be seen from the MEP diagram of MDA in Figure 1, there are both posi-

*2.1. Coplanar Triel-Bonded Complexes* 

Malondialdehyde (MDA) is often used as a model for studying intramolecular proton transfer, and TrX<sup>3</sup> can be added to MDA to form a TrB that in turn affects the proton transfer. As can be seen from the MEP diagram of MDA in Figure 1, there are both positive red and negative blue regions in MDA, indicating that it can act as both an electron donor and an acceptor. MDA contains two blue regions, which are located, respectively, at the hydroxyl oxygen and the carbonyl oxygen. It is clear that the latter has a more negative MEP value than the former. The three CH hydrogen atoms have red areas. Due to the delocalisation of the ring structure of MDA, the three carbon atoms have negative MEPs; thus, they can also bind with the π–hole of TrX3, which has been studied in previous studies (Figure S1). tive red and negative blue regions in MDA, indicating that it can act as both an electron donor and an acceptor. MDA contains two blue regions, which are located, respectively, at the hydroxyl oxygen and the carbonyl oxygen. It is clear that the latter has a more negative MEP value than the former. The three CH hydrogen atoms have red areas. Due to the delocalisation of the ring structure of MDA, the three carbon atoms have negative MEPs; thus, they can also bind with the π–hole of TrX3, which has been studied in previous studies (Figure S1). The π–hole on the T atom of TrX3 may interact with the hydroxyl O(1) or carbonyl O(2) atom of MDA to form a TrB, respectively, designated by the "a" and "b" labels.

Malondialdehyde (MDA) is often used as a model for studying intramolecular pro-

*Molecules* **2022**, *27*, 6091 3 of 16

The π–hole on the T atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> may interact with the hydroxyl O(1) or carbonyl O(2) atom of MDA to form a TrB, respectively, designated by the "a" and "b" labels. Figures 2 and 3 show the structures of the a-type and b-type complexes, respectively. The Tr···O distance is shorter than 2 Å in most complexes, with an exception in MDA-BF3-a. The shorter Tr···O distance means that the TrB formed between both molecules is very strong. The halogen substitution shortens the Tr···O distance relative to the TrH<sup>3</sup> complex in most cases. Only BF<sup>3</sup> elongates the Tr···O distance in spite of the largest π–hole on the B atom. Figures 2 and 3 show the structures of the a-type and b-type complexes, respectively. The Tr···O distance is shorter than 2 Å in most complexes, with an exception in MDA-BF3-a. The shorter Tr···O distance means that the TrB formed between both molecules is very strong. The halogen substitution shortens the Tr···O distance relative to the TrH3 complex in most cases. Only BF3 elongates the Tr···O distance in spite of the largest π–hole on the B atom.

**Figure 2.** Structures of MDA and its coplanar complexes formed by the hydroxyl O with TrX3. Distances are in Å. **Figure 2.** Structures of MDA and its coplanar complexes formed by the hydroxyl O with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Distances are in Å.

**Figure 3.** Structures of coplanar complexes of MDA formed by the carbonyl O with TrX3. Distances are in Å. **Figure 3.** Structures of coplanar complexes of MDA formed by the carbonyl O with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Distances are in Å.

Since Figure 1 confirms that the carbonyl O of MDA has a more negative MEP value than the hydroxyl O, it is not surprising that the former forms a stronger TrB with TrX3 than the latter. This difference is reflected in the shorter Tr···O distance in the a-configuration, the more negative interaction energy (Table 1), and the greater electron density at the Tr···O BCP (Table 2). However, there are exceptions for the structures of MDA-BCl3, MDA-BBr3, MDA-AlF3, MDA-AlCl3, and MDA-AlBr3 since both configurations have the same interaction energy, although they are formed in very different ways. As shown in Table 1, the interaction energy Eint in most of the MDA-AlX3 complexes is larger than that of that in the MDA-BX3 analogue, which may be due to the fact that the π–hole values of AlX3 are larger than those of BX3. When the H atoms of TrH3 are replaced by halogen, Eint basically increases, except for MDA-BF3-a, which also has the lowest Eint in all the complexes, although its π–hole is not the smallest. With the increase in halogen electronegativity, Eint increases for the MDA-AlX3 complexes but decreases for the MDA-BX3 complexes. This inconsistent change is mainly attributed to the distortion of TrX3. BF3 shows a smaller distortion relative to BCl3 and BBr3 in the complex; thus, an Since Figure 1 confirms that the carbonyl O of MDA has a more negative MEP value than the hydroxyl O, it is not surprising that the former forms a stronger TrB with TrX<sup>3</sup> than the latter. This difference is reflected in the shorter Tr···O distance in the a-configuration, the more negative interaction energy (Table 1), and the greater electron density at the Tr···O BCP (Table 2). However, there are exceptions for the structures of MDA-BCl3, MDA-BBr3, MDA-AlF3, MDA-AlCl3, and MDA-AlBr<sup>3</sup> since both configurations have the same interaction energy, although they are formed in very different ways. As shown in Table 1, the interaction energy Eint in most of the MDA-AlX<sup>3</sup> complexes is larger than that of that in the MDA-BX<sup>3</sup> analogue, which may be due to the fact that the π–hole values of AlX<sup>3</sup> are larger than those of BX3. When the H atoms of TrH<sup>3</sup> are replaced by halogen, Eint basically increases, except for MDA-BF3-a, which also has the lowest Eint in all the complexes, although its π–hole is not the smallest. With the increase in halogen electronegativity, Eint increases for the MDA-AlX<sup>3</sup> complexes but decreases for the MDA-BX<sup>3</sup> complexes. This inconsistent change is mainly attributed to the distortion of TrX3. BF<sup>3</sup> shows a smaller distortion relative to BCl<sup>3</sup> and BBr<sup>3</sup> in the complex; thus, an abnormal change occurs for the BF<sup>3</sup> complexes.

abnormal change occurs for the BF3 complexes.


**Table 1.** Interaction energy (Eint), binding energy (E<sup>b</sup> ), and deformation energy (DE) of triel bond in the complexes, all in kcal/mol.

**Table 2.** Electron density (ρ), its Laplacian (∇2ρ), energy density (H), kinetic energy density (D), and potential energy density (V) at the B···O/C BCPs in the complexes, all in a.u.


The binding energy E<sup>b</sup> and deformation energy DE of these complexes are also given in the last two columns of Table 1. The binding energy is the difference between the energy of the complex relative to the sum of the energies of the isolated monomers (in their optimised geometry). In general, E<sup>b</sup> has the same trend as Eint, but E<sup>b</sup> is not as negative as Eint, and the difference between them is DE. The DE values in MDA-BCl<sup>3</sup> and MDA-BBr<sup>3</sup> are large enough (>24 kcal/mol), which is about double as much as Eb. This is also taken as a character of a TrB since the triel molecule is often distorted easily. This distortion easily occurs in the MDA-BX<sup>3</sup> (X = H, Cl, and Br) complexes, with a DE as much as double that in the MDA-AlX<sup>3</sup> analogues.

The formation of a TrB can be further confirmed by a complicated colour region in the NCI analysis (Figures S2 and S3). In most complexes, this colour region between the Tr and O atoms is overlapped with red and blue; thus, the TrB is very strong. In addition, a green region is found between one Tr-X bond of TrX<sup>3</sup> and the C-H bond adjoined with the O atom that binds with TrX3, corresponding to a weak H-bond with a long H···X distance. Both MDA and TrX<sup>3</sup> play a reverse role in both the TrB and H-bond; thus, both interactions display positive cooperativity with each other.

Table 2 collects the AIM data of the Tr···O triel bond, including the important parameters of the electron density (ρ), its Laplacian (∇2ρ), and the energy density (H) at the bond critical point (BCP) of the TrB. For the MDA-BX<sup>3</sup> complex, <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> is positive but H is negative, indicating that the TrB is partially covalent interaction, which is also confirmed by the magnitude of |V|/G (>1). However, for the MDA-AlX<sup>3</sup> complex, both <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> and H are positive, and the magnitude of |V|/G is smaller than 1, suggesting that this TrB is a completely closed shell interaction [38], which is inconsistent with its relatively strong interaction energy. Thus, the estimation of the nature of the TrB according to the topological parameters should be made with caution. In each type of complex, a good linear relationship is present between the electron density and the interaction energy for the B···O TrB, while an opposite dependence is found for the Al···O TrB. This again highlights the careful consideration necessary in studying a TrB according to the AIM parameters.

The charge transfer (CT) values for the different types of binary complexes are given in Table S1. In most complexes, CT is larger than 0.1 e, indicative of a stronger TrB. A good relationship is not found between CT and Eint, partly due to the coexistence of both the TrB and the H···X H-bond with an opposite direction of CT.

To better understand the nature of the Tr···O TrB, an energy decomposition analysis was carried out for these systems. As shown in Table S2, the interaction energy was decomposed into five terms, including the electrostatic energy (Eele), the exchange energy (Eex), the repulsion energy (Erep), the polarisation energy (Epol), and the dispersion energy (Edisp). In most cases, Eex is the largest negative term, but it is usually cancelled with Erep; thus, neither of these two terms is discussed. Eele is larger than Epol and Edisp, and Epol is comparable with Eele in most cases, which supports the conclusion that the TrB is very strong. Edisp is negative in the B···O TrB but becomes positive in the Al analogue due to the very shorter Al···O distance.

### *2.2. π–π Parallel Structures*

A closer look at the MEP of the MDA molecule in Figure 1 shows that, in addition to the negatively charged blue region at the hydroxyl O-terminus and carbonyl O-terminus, there is also a relatively small negatively charged region above the C-atom at the centre of the MDA molecular plane, so when the π–hole on the Tr atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> approaches the central carbon atom of MDA from above, a face-to-face parallel π–π structure appears, as shown in Figure 4, like the π–π interactions in the aromatic systems.

**Figure 4.** The π–π structures formed by the central carbon of MDA with TrX3. Distances are in Å. **Figure 4.** The π–π structures formed by the central carbon of MDA with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Distances are in Å.

The π–π structure involving BH3 has comparable stability with the a-type analogue but is much less stable for its halogen derivatives. AlX3 also forms a weaker π–π structure with MDA again with the a-type analogue. The halogen substitution of AlX3 has a similar enhancing effect on the stability of the π–π structure, while an opposite influence is found for the halogen substitution of BX3. The effect of different halogen atoms has a small difference. Likely, AlX3 engages in a stronger π–π TrB than BX3 except for X = H. The above conclusions are obtained according to the interaction energy in Table 1 and the The π–π structure involving BH<sup>3</sup> has comparable stability with the a-type analogue but is much less stable for its halogen derivatives. AlX<sup>3</sup> also forms a weaker π–π structure with MDA again with the a-type analogue. The halogen substitution of AlX<sup>3</sup> has a similar enhancing effect on the stability of the π–π structure, while an opposite influence is found for the halogen substitution of BX3. The effect of different halogen atoms has a small difference. Likely, AlX<sup>3</sup> engages in a stronger π–π TrB than BX<sup>3</sup> except for X = H. The above conclusions are obtained according to the interaction energy in Table 1 and the Tr···C distance in Figure 4.

Tr···C distance in Figure 4. The distribution of the NCI region between TrX3 and MDA in the π–π structure (Figure S4) is like that in the π–π stacking of two benzene molecules [39]. The NCI region in the π–π structure of AlX3 has a deeper and more complicated colour, consistent with a stronger TrB. The electron density at the Tr···C BCP does not reflect the change in the interaction energy in the π–π structure since this structure is not bounded only by a Tr···C The distribution of the NCI region between TrX<sup>3</sup> and MDA in the π–π structure (Figure S4) is like that in the π–π stacking of two benzene molecules [39]. The NCI region in the π–π structure of AlX<sup>3</sup> has a deeper and more complicated colour, consistent with a stronger TrB. The electron density at the Tr···C BCP does not reflect the change in the interaction energy in the π–π structure since this structure is not bounded only by a Tr···C TrB. This is also true for the Laplacian at the Tr···C BCP. The sign of the energy density is negative for the Tr···C BCP with the interaction energy larger than 10 kcal/mol.

TrB. This is also true for the Laplacian at the Tr···C BCP. The sign of the energy density is negative for the Tr···C BCP with the interaction energy larger than 10 kcal/mol. Although MDA-BH3-c has the smaller interaction energy, CT in MDA-BH3-c is larger than that in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-BH3-b since the π electrons in the ring of MDA are Although MDA-BH3-c has the smaller interaction energy, CT in MDA-BH3-c is larger than that in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-BH3-b since the π electrons in the ring of MDA are easily lost.

easily lost.

If the interaction energy is smaller than 5 kcal/mol, the polarisation contribution is smallest, and the dispersion is even larger than the electrostatic energy in MDA-BCl3-c and MDA-BBr3-c due to the nature of π electron in the MDA ring and the longer distance (>3 Å). If the interaction energy is larger than 10 kcal/mol, the dispersion contribution is the smallest, and the polarisation energy is comparable with the electrostatic energy.

#### *2.3. Proton Transfer*

The formation of the TrB has an important influence on the intramolecular structures of MDA, particularly its intramolecular H-bond. When the Tr atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> participates in a TrB with the hydroxyl O of MDA, R2(O-H) is stretched, and R1(H···O) is shortened. In MDA-AlF3-a, MDA-BCl3, and MDA-BBr3, R1(H···O) is much shorter than R2(O-H), which can be described as a partial proton transfer. However, when the Tr atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> engages in a TrB with the carbonyl O of MDA, R2(O-H) is shortened, and the R1(H···O) is stretched, indicating that no proton transfer occurs. When the Tr atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> forms a π–π parallel structure with the central C atom of MDA, most of the structures have a small degree of R2(O-H) elongation and a shortened R1(H···O), which can also be considered to have undergone proton transfer but to a much lesser extent than the a-configuration. It is also interesting to note that the R<sup>2</sup> (O-H) and R1(H···O) in both MDA-BH3-c and MDA-BF3-c are slightly elongated, a change that is negligible. The above bond lengths as well as their bond length variations are listed in Table 3.

**Table 3.** H···O distance (R<sup>1</sup> ) and O-H bond length (R<sup>2</sup> ) in the complexes as well as their difference (∆R) relative to the monomer, all in Å.


Table 4 shows the AIM analysis for the intramolecular H···O(2) and O(1)-H BCPs. In the MDA monomer, both <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> and H at the O(1)-H BCP are negative, with a character of a covalent bond, while only H is negative at the H···O(2) BCP, indicative of a partially covalent interaction. When the Tr atom of TrX<sup>3</sup> forms a TrB with the hydroxyl O of MDA, the ρ at the H···O(2) BCP increases, while it is decreased for the O(1)-H BCP. Even the

sign of <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> at both types of BCPs is changed in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = F, Cl, and Br). Specifically, <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> becomes negative for the H···O(2) BCP but positive for the O(1)-H BCP. In addition, H at the H···O(2) BCP is more negative but less negative for the O(1)-H BCP. These changes demonstrate that the intramolecular H-bond is strengthened, and even a proton transfer occurs in the a-type complex with a very strong TrB. This enhancing effect is also found in the c-type complex except for MDA-BH3-c and MDA-BF3-c, but no proton charge occurs. When the Tr atom in TrX<sup>3</sup> forms a TrB with the carbonyl O of MDA, an opposite change is found for the ρ at the H···O(2) and O(1)-H BCPs, and the signs of both <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> and H are not changed. This means that the intramolecular H-bond is weakened.

**Table 4.** Electron density (ρ), Laplacians (∇2ρ), and energy density (H) at the H···O and O-H BCPs in the complexes, all in a.u.


#### *2.4. Substitution Effect*

Besides external influences, the intramolecular H-bond of MDA can also be regulated by the presence of substituents. In order to enhance the H-bond within the MDA molecule, we selected the three structures of MDA-BH3-a, MDA-BF3-a, and MDA-AlH3-a since no complete proton transfer occurs and replaces the H atom attached to the central C atom in these structures with a BH<sup>2</sup> group, as shown in Figure 5. It is clear from the figure that the structures of BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a dramatically change, compared with the corresponding MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a, while the structure of BH2-MDA-BF3-a has a slight change.

**Figure 5.** Structures of three a-type complexes substituted by a BH2 group. **Figure 5.** Structures of three a-type complexes substituted by a BH<sup>2</sup> group.

From Table 3, it can be seen that there is a large degree of contraction of R1 and a significant degree of stretching of R2 in both BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a, compared with MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a, which could indicate a significant enhancement in the H-bond and hence proton transfer. This conclusion is also deduced from the AIM analysis in Table 4, which shows that the ρ at the H···O BCP in both the BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a structures is considerably increased, and the sign of ∇<sup>2</sup> ρ changes from positive in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a to negative, indicating that the H···O H-bond in these structures has changed from the partially covalent interaction in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a to the present covalent bond. In contrast, the ρ at the O-H BCP in both BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a decreases, and the sign of ∇2 ρ changes from negative to positive, indicating that the O-H changes in these structures from a covalent bond to a partially covalent interaction. However, when the H atom attached to the C atom in the centre in MDA-BF3-a is replaced by a BH2 group, there is only a small contraction of R1 and a slight increase in ρ at the H···O BCP, so we believe that the From Table 3, it can be seen that there is a large degree of contraction of R<sup>1</sup> and a significant degree of stretching of R<sup>2</sup> in both BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a, compared with MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a, which could indicate a significant enhancement in the H-bond and hence proton transfer. This conclusion is also deduced from the AIM analysis in Table 4, which shows that the ρ at the H···O BCP in both the BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a structures is considerably increased, and the sign of <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> changes from positive in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a to negative, indicating that the H···O H-bond in these structures has changed from the partially covalent interaction in MDA-BH3-a and MDA-AlH3-a to the present covalent bond. In contrast, the ρ at the O-H BCP in both BH2- MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a decreases, and the sign of <sup>∇</sup>2<sup>ρ</sup> changes from negative to positive, indicating that the O-H changes in these structures from a covalent bond to a partially covalent interaction. However, when the H atom attached to the C atom in the centre in MDA-BF3-a is replaced by a BH<sup>2</sup> group, there is only a small contraction of R<sup>1</sup> and a slight increase in ρ at the H···O BCP, so we believe that the effect on the intramolecular H-bond is still very small in BH2-MDA-BF3-a, like MDA-BF3-a.

effect on the intramolecular H-bond is still very small in BH2-MDA-BF3-a, like MDA-BF3-a. The orbital interaction diagram also demonstrates that the addition of the BH2 moiety enhances the H-bond and further promotes proton transfer. In MDA-BH3-a (Figure 6a), the charge density moves from the lone pair orbital of the carbonyl O(2) atom into the antibonding orbital of the O(1)-H bond, while this orbital interaction becomes The orbital interaction diagram also demonstrates that the addition of the BH<sup>2</sup> moiety enhances the H-bond and further promotes proton transfer. In MDA-BH3-a (Figure 6a), the charge density moves from the lone pair orbital of the carbonyl O(2) atom into the antibonding orbital of the O(1)-H bond, while this orbital interaction becomes LPO(1)→σ\*O(2)-H in BH2-MDA-BH3-a (Figure 6c); thus, the direction of the orbital interaction is reversed. In addition, the overlapping between both orbitals is almost the same in both structures. This similar orbital interaction is also found in MDA-BCl3-a (Figure 6b).

LPO(1)→σ\*O(2)-H in BH2-MDA-BH3-a (Figure 6c); thus, the direction of the orbital interaction is reversed. In addition, the overlapping between both orbitals is almost the same in both structures. This similar orbital interaction is also found in MDA-BCl3-a (Figure 6b). The addition of an electron-withdrawing group BH2 to the central C atom of MDA also influences the strengths of the TrB and secondary H···X interactions. The Tr···O and H···X distances are shortened in BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a but elongated in BH2-MDA-BF3-a. Thus, both types of interactions are strengthened in BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a but weakened in BH2-MDA-BF3-a. In turn, the change in TrB The addition of an electron-withdrawing group BH<sup>2</sup> to the central C atom of MDA also influences the strengths of the TrB and secondary H···X interactions. The Tr···O and H···X distances are shortened in BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a but elongated in BH2- MDA-BF3-a. Thus, both types of interactions are strengthened in BH2-MDA-BH3-a and BH2-MDA-AlH3-a but weakened in BH2-MDA-BF3-a. In turn, the change in TrB strength would impose an influence on the proton transfer. Therefore, the introduction of the BH<sup>2</sup> group can regulate the intramolecular proton transfer not only through a substitution effect but also through a cooperative effect.

strength would impose an influence on the proton transfer. Therefore, the introduction of the BH2 group can regulate the intramolecular proton transfer not only through a sub-

stitution effect but also through a cooperative effect.

**Figure 6.** Diagrams of LpO→σ\*H-O orbital interaction in (**a**) MDA-BH3-a, (**b**) MDA-BCl3-a, and (**c**) BH2-MDA-BH3-a. **Figure 6.** Diagrams of LpO→σ\*H-O orbital interaction in (**a**) MDA-BH<sup>3</sup> -a, (**b**) MDA-BCl<sup>3</sup> -a, and (**c**) BH<sup>2</sup> -MDA-BH<sup>3</sup> -a.

#### **3. Discussion 3. Discussion**

There is a hydroxyl O in MDA, which can form a TrB with TrX3 with the interaction energy of 7–42 kcal/mol. The interaction energy exceeds 37 kcal/mol in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen) since the hydroxyl O becomes the carbonyl O upon the formation of a TrB. The carbonyl O has a larger negative MEP than the hydroxyl O; thus, the former participates in a stronger TrB. This supports the fact that the carbonyl O is a stronger electron donor in intermolecular interactions such as H-bond [40]. The intramolecular H-bond belongs to a resonance-assisted H-bond, and the charge density on the hydroxyl O is delocalised and thus reduced, which can be used to explain why the There is a hydroxyl O in MDA, which can form a TrB with TrX<sup>3</sup> with the interaction energy of 7–42 kcal/mol. The interaction energy exceeds 37 kcal/mol in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen) since the hydroxyl O becomes the carbonyl O upon the formation of a TrB. The carbonyl O has a larger negative MEP than the hydroxyl O; thus, the former participates in a stronger TrB. This supports the fact that the carbonyl O is a stronger electron donor in intermolecular interactions such as H-bond [40]. The intramolecular H-bond belongs to a resonance-assisted H-bond, and the charge density on the hydroxyl O is delocalised and thus reduced, which can be used to explain why the TrB formed by the hydroxyl O of MDA is weaker than that of H2O (>20 kcal/mol) [36].

TrB formed by the hydroxyl O of MDA is weaker than that of H2O (>20 kcal/mol) [36]. A comparison of the interaction energy between MDA-BH3-a and MDA-BF3-a shows that the F substituents on the B centre weaken the TrB, although the π–hole in the BF3 molecule is larger than that in BH3. This conclusion has been confirmed in previous studies [25,26,36]. This abnormality is primarily attributed to the back-bonding effect from the F atom into the outer p orbital of the boron atom, and this effect makes the BF3 molecule not easily undergo distortion. DE amounts to 50% of the binding energy in MDA-BF3-a and 84% in MDA-BH3-a. Accordingly, the distortion has a prominent contribution to the interaction energy of TrB. When the carbonyl O binds with BX3, the DE percentage is much larger due to the formation of a stronger TrB. MDA-BF3-b has a larger DE contribution to the interaction energy than MDA-BH3-b, and the variation in the interaction energy becomes normal in both complexes, consistent with the π–hole on the B A comparison of the interaction energy between MDA-BH3-a and MDA-BF3-a shows that the F substituents on the B centre weaken the TrB, although the π–hole in the BF<sup>3</sup> molecule is larger than that in BH3. This conclusion has been confirmed in previous studies [25,26,36]. This abnormality is primarily attributed to the back-bonding effect from the F atom into the outer p orbital of the boron atom, and this effect makes the BF<sup>3</sup> molecule not easily undergo distortion. DE amounts to 50% of the binding energy in MDA-BF3-a and 84% in MDA-BH3-a. Accordingly, the distortion has a prominent contribution to the interaction energy of TrB. When the carbonyl O binds with BX3, the DE percentage is much larger due to the formation of a stronger TrB. MDA-BF3-b has a larger DE contribution to the interaction energy than MDA-BH3-b, and the variation in the interaction energy becomes normal in both complexes, consistent with the π–hole on the B atom. Whether the a-type or b-type complexes, the DE contribution to the binding energy in the AlX<sup>3</sup> complex is much smaller than that in the BX<sup>3</sup> analogue.

atom. Whether the a-type or b-type complexes, the DE contribution to the binding energy in the AlX3 complex is much smaller than that in the BX3 analogue. When the hydroxyl O of MDA engages in a very strong TrB in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl When the hydroxyl O of MDA engages in a very strong TrB in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen), the corresponding interaction energy is the same as that in the b-type analogue. This is also reflected in the related data of the geometries, AIM,

and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen), the corresponding interaction energy is the same as that in the b-type analogue. This is also reflected in the related data of the geometries,

and NBO. This shows that the a-type and the b-type structures of these complexes are the same. This transformation is described with MDA-BCl<sup>3</sup> as an example (Figure 7). Structure 1 is the initial complex before optimisation; thus, the geometrical parameters in 1 are the same as those in the isolated MDA. As the B···O distance is shorter in 2, the O(1)-H bond is elongated, and the H···O(2) distance is shortened. Structure 3 has an equivalent distance of the H atom with the two O atoms. Structure 4 is an enantiomer with 2. When the triel bond is strong enough in structure 5, the proton moves completely from the O(1) to O(2), and their roles are reversed. are the same. This transformation is described with MDA-BCl3 as an example (Figure 7). Structure 1 is the initial complex before optimisation; thus, the geometrical parameters in 1 are the same as those in the isolated MDA. As the B···O distance is shorter in 2, the O(1)-H bond is elongated, and the H···O(2) distance is shortened. Structure 3 has an equivalent distance of the H atom with the two O atoms. Structure 4 is an enantiomer with 2. When the triel bond is strong enough in structure 5, the proton moves completely from the O(1) to O(2), and their roles are reversed.

**Figure 7.** Different conformations in the formation process of MDA-BCl3-a. **Figure 7.** Different conformations in the formation process of MDA-BCl<sup>3</sup> -a.

The intramolecular H-bond is strengthened if TrX3 attacks the hydroxyl O of MDA, while an opposite effect is obtained if it is introduced into the carbonyl O. The former effect promotes the proton transfer, while the latter inhibits the proton transfer. Such an effect has also been imposed by introducing a beryllium bond [15] or a tetrel bond [16]. When a strong tetrel bond formed with F2SiO (>42 kcal/mol) is introduced to the hydroxyl O of MDA, the ratio of R1/R2 is 0.57, which is almost equal to that caused by a stronger TrB (37–42 kcal/mol). This shows that the enhancement in the added interaction has a slight effect on the degree of proton transfer if its interaction energy exceeds a threshold value, and here, it may be 37 kcal/mol. The intramolecular H-bond is strengthened if TrX<sup>3</sup> attacks the hydroxyl O of MDA, while an opposite effect is obtained if it is introduced into the carbonyl O. The former effect promotes the proton transfer, while the latter inhibits the proton transfer. Such an effect has also been imposed by introducing a beryllium bond [15] or a tetrel bond [16]. When a strong tetrel bond formed with F2SiO (>42 kcal/mol) is introduced to the hydroxyl O of MDA, the ratio of R1/R<sup>2</sup> is 0.57, which is almost equal to that caused by a stronger TrB (37–42 kcal/mol). This shows that the enhancement in the added interaction has a slight effect on the degree of proton transfer if its interaction energy exceeds a threshold value, and here, it may be 37 kcal/mol.

The π–π structure of the c-type complex between TrX3 and MDA is very interesting. If the MDA is replaced by benzene, a similar π–π structure has been reported [41]. The strength of the corresponding TrB is also equal for the complexes of TrX3 with both MDA and benzene except BH3. The effect of halogen substitution on the triel donor is also the same. Specifically, the halogen substitution on the B centre weakens the π–π structure, while that on the Al centre has an opposite effect. If TrX3 is changed into F2TO (T = C and Si), the π–π structure obtained with MDA has an interaction energy value of 2.5 kcal/mol for F2CO and 27 kcal/mol for F2SiO [16]. The corresponding interaction energy is also in a similar range in the TrB formed by TrX3. The π–π structure of the c-type complex between TrX<sup>3</sup> and MDA is very interesting. If the MDA is replaced by benzene, a similar π–π structure has been reported [41]. The strength of the corresponding TrB is also equal for the complexes of TrX<sup>3</sup> with both MDA and benzene except BH3. The effect of halogen substitution on the triel donor is also the same. Specifically, the halogen substitution on the B centre weakens the π–π structure, while that on the Al centre has an opposite effect. If TrX<sup>3</sup> is changed into F2TO (T = C and Si), the π–π structure obtained with MDA has an interaction energy value of 2.5 kcal/mol for F2CO and 27 kcal/mol for F2SiO [16]. The corresponding interaction energy is also in a similar range in the TrB formed by TrX3.

The DE value in MDA-BBr3-c is very small (0.2 kcal/mol); thus, the planar structures of both MDA and BBr3 are held in the complex, resulting in a π–π structure. When the B···C distance in MDA-BBr3-c is shortened to 1.8 Å (its structure is shown in Figure S5), the planar structures of both molecules are distorted with a high deformation energy value of 32 kcal/mol, and the corresponding π–π structure disappears. The interaction energy amounts to 33.64 kcal/mol for the distorted structure of MDA-BBr3-c. Interestingly, its binding energy is very small (<2 kcal/mol), which is smaller than that in the corresponding π–π structure (~4 kcal/mol). We plotted the energy curve of MDA-BBr3-c The DE value in MDA-BBr3-c is very small (0.2 kcal/mol); thus, the planar structures of both MDA and BBr<sup>3</sup> are held in the complex, resulting in a π–π structure. When the B···C distance in MDA-BBr3-c is shortened to 1.8 Å (its structure is shown in Figure S5), the planar structures of both molecules are distorted with a high deformation energy value of 32 kcal/mol, and the corresponding π–π structure disappears. The interaction energy amounts to 33.64 kcal/mol for the distorted structure of MDA-BBr3-c. Interestingly, its binding energy is very small (<2 kcal/mol), which is smaller than that in the corresponding π–π structure (~4 kcal/mol). We plotted the energy curve of MDA-BBr3-c by changing the

by changing the B···C distance from 1.5 to 3.5 Å (Figure S6). Two minima are found on the

B···C distance from 1.5 to 3.5 Å (Figure S6). Two minima are found on the potential energy surface, corresponding to the structures in Figure 4 and Figure S5. The distorted structure is more stable than the π–π structure, and the barrier between both structures is 2 kcal/mol.

#### **4. Conclusions**

The π–hole above TrX<sup>3</sup> (Tr = B and Al; X = H, F, Cl, and Br) can form a TrB with the hydroxyl O, carbonyl O, and the central carbon atoms of MDA, marked with a, b, and c, respectively. Other than the TrB, there is also a H···X secondary interaction in both the a-type complex and the b-type complex. As expected, the carbonyl O engages in a stronger TrB than the hydroxyl O, and both types of O atoms are better nucleophiles than the central carbon atom. When TrX<sup>3</sup> is introduced into the hydroxyl O in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen), the triel-bonded complexes formed have equal stability to the corresponding b-type complex, with a high degree of interaction energy (>37 kcal/mol). The halogen substitution in the triel donor has an enhancing effect on the strength of TrB with an exception in MDA-BF3-a and MDA-BX3-c. For each type of complex, AlX<sup>3</sup> shows a higher affinity to MDA than BX<sup>3</sup> except X = H.

The formation of TrB between TrX<sup>3</sup> and MDA has an effect on the strength of the intramolecular H-bond in MDA. When TrX<sup>3</sup> attacks the hydroxyl or carbonyl O atom of MDA, the former interaction strengthens the intramolecular H-bond, while the latter leads to a weakening H-bond. The π–TrB in the c-type complex also has an enhancing effect on the intramolecular H-bond except for MDA-BH3-c and MDA-BF3-c. Accompanied by the strengthening or weakening of the intramolecular H-bond, the proton transfer is promoted or inhibited. A complete proton transfer is seen in MDA-BX3-a (X = Cl and Br) and MDA-AlX3-a (X = halogen), and these complexes display an equal degree of proton transfer, independent of the strength of the TrB. An electron-withdrawing group BH<sup>2</sup> at the central carbon atom of MDA in BH2-MDA-TrH3-a (Tr = B and Al) can enhance the intramolecular H-bond and further cause a proton transfer. This substitution in BH2-MDA-BF3-a also strengthens the H-bond, but no proton transfer occurs.

#### **5. Theoretical Methods**

All the monomers and complexes were optimised using the MP2 method with an aug-cc-pVTZ basis set. Frequency calculations were performed at the same level to verify that the optimised structures were true minima on the potential energy surface, without imaginary frequencies. The interaction energies (Eint) were calculated using supramolecular methods involving monomers with their geometries adopted in the complexes. The binding energy (Eb) represents the difference between the energy of the complex and the sum of the monomer energies in the fully optimised structure. The difference between Eint and E<sup>b</sup> is defined as the deformation energy (DE). These quantities were corrected for the basis set superposition error (BSSE) according to the equilibrium protocol proposed by Boys and Bernardi [42]. All the calculations were performed using the Gaussian 09 program [43].

The MEP maps of the monomers were plotted on 0.001 a.u. electron density isosurfaces at the MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ level using the Wave Function Analysis Surface Analysis Suite (WFA-SAS) software [44]. The topological parameters, including the electron density, its Laplacian, and the total energy density at the bond critical point (BCP), were calculated using the MultiWFN program [45]. Natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis was performed at the HF/aug-cc-pVTZ level to evaluate the charge transfer (CT) and interorbital interactions using the NBO 3.0 program [46]. Non-covalent interaction (NCI) [47] mapping was plotted using the Multiwfn [45] and VMD program [48]. The decomposition of the interaction energy comprised five physically significant components: the electrostatic energy (Eele), the exchange energy (Eex), the repulsive energy (Erep), the polarisation energy (Epol), and the dispersive energy (Edisp). These features were determined at the MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ level using the local molecular orbital energy decomposition analysis (LMO-EDA) method [49] in the GAMESS program [50].

**Supplementary Materials:** The following are available online at https://www.mdpi.com/article/ 10.3390/molecules27186091/s1, Figure S1: MEP maps of TrX<sup>3</sup> . Color ranges are: red, greater than 0.02; yellow, between 0.02 and 0; green, between −0.02 and 0; blue, less than −0.02. All are in a.u., Figure S2: NCI diagram of binary complex formed by the hydroxyl O with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Blue, green, and red areas represent strong attraction, weak attraction, and strong repulsion, respectively. Diagrams are drawn by the Multiwfn and the VMD programs, Figure S3: NCI diagram of binary complex of MDA formed by the carbonyl O with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Blue, green, and red areas represent strong attraction, weak attraction, and strong repulsion, respectively, Figure S4: NCI diagram of π-π structures formed by the carbon center of MDA with TrX<sup>3</sup> . Blue, green, and red areas represent strong attraction, weak attraction, and strong repulsion, respectively, Figure S5: Structure of MDA-BBr<sup>3</sup> -c at a B···C distance of 1.8 Å, Figure S6: The energy curve of MDA-BBr<sup>3</sup> -c by changing the B···C distance from 1.5 to 3.5 Å, Table S1: Charge transfer (CT, e) in the complexes, Table S2: Electrostatic (Eele), exchange (Eex), repulsion (Erep), polarization (Epol), and dispersion energies (Edisp) as well as the total interaction energy (∆E total) of triel bond in the binary complexes. All are in kcal/mol.

**Author Contributions:** Q.L. conceived of the idea for this project and wrote a first draft of the manuscript; Q.W. carried out the calculations and compiled the data; S.Y. supervised the calculations and helped with the final draft. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

**Funding:** This research was funded by the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (ZR2021MB123).

**Institutional Review Board Statement:** Not applicable.

**Informed Consent Statement:** Not applicable.

**Data Availability Statement:** Not applicable.

**Conflicts of Interest:** The author declares no conflict of interest.

**Sample Availability:** Samples of the compounds are not available from the authors.

#### **References**

