Cobalt(0) supported by N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands has recently been shown to be active for intramolecular carbon-hydrogen bond activation. To explore generation of unsaturated, low valent cobalt for intermolecular C-H activation, we have explored synthesis of the ultrabulky IPr* ligand, recently developed by Marko and coworkers, and subsequent metallation with a series of Co(I) and Co(II) metal precursors. Characterization of these complexes by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography will be presented. One or two electron reductions of these compounds using alkali metal reductants provides access to the reactive IPr*Co(0) fragment. Reaction of this unsaturated species with a variety of donor ligands and its ability to activate intra- and intermolecular C-H bonds will be presented.

Generation of unsaturated, low coordinate NHC Co(0) fragments

247th National Meeting (2014)

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