Phosphazene superbases have been used in several synthetic capacities. In particular, many phosphazene-superbase complexes have been used as initiators for different anionic polymerizations. While the main function of these phosphazene bases is utilizing their strong Brønsted basicity, little attention has been given to their Lewis base capabilities. We have begun to study the interactions of P2-phosphazene superbases with various Lewis acids. One intriguing possibility of utilizing the Lewis basicity of these phosphazene bases is to create frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs). Complexes of P2Et phosphazene superbase with various Lewis acids (LiCl, LiBr ZnCl2, AlCl3, GaCl3 and InCl3) were prepared under strict anaerobic conditions. These complexes were characterized by X-ray crystallography and multi-nuclear and variable temperature NMR studies. The FLP capabilities of these complexes were investigated.

Phosphazene superbase-Lewis acids adducts and their frustrated Lewis pair capabilities

249th National Meeting (2015)

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