The bite angle is a characteristic geometric parameter of diphosphine ligands that describes steric effects and can have a pronounced influence on catalytic processes. While both cis- and trans-coordinating ligands are known, flexible diphosphine ligands that are able to adapt to a preferred coordination environment during a catalytic process are of particular importance. In our pursuit of ferrocene-based Lewis acids and Lewis pairs we have recently discovered a new ambiphilic and planar chiral diphosphine ligand Hg(ortho-FcPPh2)2 with mercury as the bridging σ-acceptor atom. We present synthetic routes that allow for isolation of both the structurally distinct pSpS- and meso-isomers of Hg(ortho-FcPPh2)2. We further demonstrate the flexible coordination behavior of the ligands when bound to transition metals. Differences in the reactivity of the between the pSpS- and meso-isomers will be highlighted.

Diferrocenylmercury-bridged diphosphines: Flexible ambiphilic ligands with a unique stereochemical environment

2019 Fall National Meeting

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