I'm looking at a catalytic cycle that uses CuI and acetonitrile to generate Cu+ ions in order to convert EDA and 1-hexyne into ethyl oct-3-ynoate via a diazo coupling reaction.

 

I have no clue how these Cu+ catalytic ions form.

 

How are the Cu+ catalytic ions made?

 

I'm assuming acetonitrile breaks apart the Cu-I and forms solvation shells around the ions.

But that is just a guess.

Edited November 13, 201114 yr by Genecks

I imagine you're right and it just forms a copper acetonitrile complex with an iodide counter-ion.