Bromination of a Stable 1,2-Bis(ferrocenyl)dibismuthene: Synthesis of a 1,2-Dibromodibismuthane Derivative

Light-Dependent Reactivity of Heavy Pnictogen Double Bonds

The chemistry of light dipnictenes has been widely investigated in the last century with remarkable achievements especially for azobenzene derivatives. In contrast, distibenes and dibismuthenes are relatively rare and show very limited reactivity. Herein, we have designed a protocol using visible light to enhance the reactivity of heavy dipnictenes. Exploiting the distinctive π-π* transition, we have been able to isolate unique examples of dipnictene-cobalt complexes. The reactivity of the distibene complex was further exploited using red light in the presence of a diazoolefin to access an unusual four-membered bicyclo[1.1.0]butane analog, containing only a single carbon atom. These findings set the bases to a conceptually new strategy in heavy element double bonds chemistry where visible light is at the front seat of bond activation.

Isolation of Cyclic(Alkyl)(Amino) Carbene-Bismuthinidene Mediated by a Beryllium(0) Complex

The long-sought carbene-bismuthinidene, (CAAC)Bi(Ph), has been synthesized. Notably, this represents both the first example of a carbene-stabilized subvalent bismuth complex and the extension of the carbene-pnictinidene concept to a non-toxic metallic element (Bi). The bonding has been investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies and DFT calculations. This report also highlights the hitherto unknown reducing and ligand transfer capability of a beryllium(0) complex.