Coordination chemistry and functionalization of white phosphorus via transition metal complexes

Functionalization of Tetraphosphido Ligands by Heterocumulenes

Although numerous polyphosphido complexes have been accessed through the transition-metal-mediated activation and functionalization of white phosphorus (P4), the selective functionalization of the resulting polyphosphorus ligands in these compounds remains underdeveloped. In this study, we explore the reactions between cyclotetraphosphido cobalt complexes and heterocumulenes, leading to functionalized P4 ligands. Specifically, the reaction of carbon disulfide (CS2) with [K(18c-6)][(Ar*BIAN)Co(η4-P4)] ([K(18c-6)]1, 18c-6 = [18]crown-6) affords the adduct [K(18c-6)][(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3:η1-P4CS2)] ([K(18c-6)]3), in which CS2 is attached to a single phosphorus atom (Ar* = 2,6-dibenzhydryl-4-isopropylphenyl, BIAN = 1,2-bis(arylimino)acenaphthene diimine). In contrast, the insertion of bis(trimethylsilyl)sulfur diimide S(NSiMe3)2 into a P-P bond of [K(18c-6)]1 yields [K(18c-6)][(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3:η1-P4SN2(SiMe3)2)] (K(18c-6)]4). This salt further reacts with Me3SiCl to form [(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3:η1-P4SN2(SiMe3)3] (5), featuring a rare azatetraphosphole ligand. Moreover, treatment of the previously reported complex [(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3:η1-P4C(O)tBu)] (2) with isothiocyanates results in P-C bond insertion, yielding [(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3:η1-P4C(S)N(R)C(O)tBu)] (6a,b; R = Cy, Ph).

Cycloadditions of Diazoalkenes with P4 and tBuCP: Access to Diazaphospholes

Diazoalkenes readily react with tert-butylphosphaalkyne (tBuCP) and white phosphorus (P4) to afford novel phosphorus heterocycles, 3H-1,2,4-diazamonophospholes and 1,2,3,4-diazadiphospholes. Both species represent rare examples of neutral heterophospholes. The mechanism of formation and the electronic structures of these formal (3+2) cycloaddition products were analyzed computationally. The new phospholes form structurally diverse coordination compounds with transition metal and main group elements. Given the growing number of stable diazoalkenes, this work offers a straightforward route to neutral aza(di-)phospholes as a new ligand class.

An Air-Stable Storage Compound for White Phosphorus: Reversible Addition to a Stannylene and Chemical Release of P4

Controlled insertion into a single P-P bond of white phosphorus (P4) was achieved by employing a diaryl stabilized stannylene, Ar*2Sn (Ar*=2,6-bis(benzhydryl)-4-iPr-phenyl). Conversions of the stannylene with P4 gave a non-pyrophoric, air-stable storage compound, which releases P4 quantitively upon irradiation with light (354 or 455 nm). Alternatively, the phosphorus cage is detached by reacting the storage compound with PhChChPh (Ch=Se, Te). Despite the recent advances in the directed conversion of P4 using main group element compounds, Ar*2Sn constitutes only the second structurally characterized example of a stannylene capable of performing controlled, reversible addition and release of white phosphorus.

Cobalt-Mediated [3+1] Fragmentation of White Phosphorus: Access to Acylcyanophosphanides

Despite the accessibility of numerous transition metal polyphosphido complexes through transition-metal-mediated activation of white phosphorus, the targeted functionalization of Pn ligands to obtain functional monophosphorus species remains challenging. In this study, we introduce a new [3+1] fragmentation procedure for cyclo-P4 ligands, leading to the discovery of acylcyanophosphanides and -phosphines. Treatment of the complex [K(18c-6)][(Ar*BIAN)Co(η4 -P4 )] ([K(18c-6)]3, 18c-6=[18]crown-6, Ar*=2,6-dibenzhydryl-4-isopropylphenyl, BIAN=1,2-bis(arylimino)acenaphthene diimine) with acyl chlorides results in the formation of acylated tetraphosphido complexes [(Ar*BIAN)Co(η4 -P4 C(O)R)] (R=tBu, Cy, 1-Ad, Ph; 4 a-d). Subsequent reactions of 4 a-d with cyanide salts yield acylated cyanophosphanides [RC(O)PCN]- (9 a-d- ) and the cyclo-P3 cobaltate anion [(Ar*BIAN)Co(η3 -P3 )(CN)]- (8- ). Further reactions of 4 a-d with trimethylsilyl cyanide (Me3 SiCN) and isocyanides provide insight into a plausible mechanism of this [3+1] fragmentation reaction, as these reagents partially displace the P4 C(O)R ligand from the cobalt center. Several potential intermediates of the [3+1] fragmentation were characterized. Additionally, the introduction of a second acyl substituent was achieved by treating [K(18c-6)]9b with CyC(O)Cl, resulting in the first bis(acyl)monocyanophosphine (CyC(O))2 PCN (10).

DNA binding properties and cytotoxic effects of two double rollover cycloplatinated (II) complexes on cancer cell lines

In this study, the DNA binding capacity and cytotoxic effects of two double rollovers cycloplatinated complexes, [Pt₂(μ-bpy-2H)(CF₃COO)₂(PPh₃)₂] and [Pt₂(μ-bpy-2H)(I)₂(PPh₃)₂] denoted as C1 and C2, respectively, were evaluated. By using UV-Visible spectroscopy the intrinsic binding constant (K_b) of C1 and C2 to DNA were determined as 2.9 × 10⁵ M^-1, and 5.4 × 10⁵ M^-1, respectively. Both the compounds were able to quench the fluorescence of ethidium bromide as a well known DNA intercalator. The calculated Stern-Volmer quenching constants (K_sv) for C1 and C2 were 3.5 × 10³ M^-1, and 1.2 × 10⁴ M^-1, respectively. Upon interaction of both the compounds with DNA, increase in viscosity of DNA solution were observed, further confiming the involvement of intercalative interactions between the complexes and DNA. The cytotoxic effects of complexes in compare to cisplatin were evaluated on different cancer cell lines by MTT assay. Interestingly, C2 showed the highest cytotoxicity on A2780R, a cisplatin resistant-cell line. Induction of apoptosis by the complexes was proved by flowcytometry. In all the studied cell lines, the extent of apoptosis induced by C2 was comparable or higher than cisplatin. Cisplatin induced more necrosis in all the cancer cell lines in the tested concentration.

Molecular cyclo-P3 complexes of the rare-earth elements via a one-pot reaction and selective reduction

Synthesis of new organo-lanthanide polyphosphides with an aromatic cyclo-[P₄]^2- moiety and a cyclo-[P₃]^3- moiety is presented. For this purpose, the divalent Ln^II-complexes [(NON)Ln^II(thf)₂] (Ln = Sm, Yb) ((NON)^2- = 4,5-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl-amino)-2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,9-dimethylxanthene) and trivalent Ln^III-complexes [(NON)Ln^IIIBH₄(thf)₂] (Ln = Y, Sm, Dy) were used as precursors in the reduction process of white phosphorus. While using [(NON)Ln^II(thf)₂] as a one-electron reducing agent the formation of organo-lanthanide polyphosphides with a cyclo-[P₄]^2- Zintl anion was observed. For comparison, we investigated a multi-electron reduction of P₄ by a one-pot reaction of [(NON)Ln^IIIBH₄(thf)₂] with elemental potassium. As products molecular polyphosphides with a cyclo-[P₃]^3- moiety were isolated. The same compound could also be obtained by reducing the cyclo-[P₄]^2- Zintl anion within the coordination sphere of Sm^III in [{(NON)Sm^III(thf)₂}₂(μ-η⁴:η⁴-P₄)]. Reduction of a polyphosphide within the coordination sphere of a lanthanide complex is unprecedented. Additionally, the magnetic properties of the dinuclear Dy^III-compound bearing a bridging cyclo-[P₃]^3- moiety were investigated.

Hydrostannylation of Red Phosphorus: A Convenient Route to Monophosphines

The preparation of valuable and industrially relevant organophosphorus compounds currently depends on indirect multistep procedures involving difficult-to-handle white phosphorus as a common P atom source. Herein, we report a practical and versatile method for the synthesis of a variety of monophosphorus compounds directly from the bench-stable allotrope red phosphorus (Pred ). The relatively inert Pred was productively functionalised by using the cheap and readily available radical reagent tri-n-butyltin hydride, and subsequent treatment with electrophiles yields useful P1 compounds. Remarkably, these transformations require only modest inert-atmosphere techniques and use only reagents that are inexpensive and commercially available, making this a convenient and practical methodology accessible in most laboratory settings.

Flat epitaxial quasi-1D phosphorene chains

The emergence of peculiar phenomena in 1D phosphorene chains (P chains) has been proposed in theoretical studies, notably the Stark and Seebeck effects, room temperature magnetism, and topological phase transitions. Attempts so far to fabricate P chains, using the top-down approach starting from a few layers of bulk black phosphorus, have failed to produce reliably precise control of P chains. We show that molecular beam epitaxy gives a controllable bottom-up approach to grow atomically thin, crystalline 1D flat P chains on a Ag(111) substrate. Scanning tunneling microscopy, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations reveal that the armchair-shaped chains are semiconducting with an intrinsic 1.80 ± 0.20 eV band gap. This could make these P chains an ideal material for opto-electronic devices.

Fragmentation, catenation, and direct functionalisation of white phosphorus by a uranium(IV)-silyl-phosphino-carbene complex

Room temperature reaction of the uranium(iv)-carbene [U{C(SiMe3)(PPh2)}(BIPMTMS)(μ-Cl)Li(TMEDA)(μ-TMEDA)0.5]2 (1, BIPMTMS = C(PPh2NSiMe3)2) with white phosphorus (P4) produces the organo-P5 compound [P5{C(SiMe3)(PPh2)}2][Li(TMEDA)2] (2) and the uranium(iv)-methanediide [U{BIPMTMS}{Cl}{μ-Cl}2{Li(TMEDA)}] (3). This is an unprecedented example of cooperative metal-carbene P4 activation/insertion into a metal-carbon double bond and also an actinide complex reacting with P4 to directly form an organophosphorus species. Conducting the reaction at low temperature permits the isolation of the diuranium(iv) complex [{U(BIPMTMS)([μ-η2:η2-P2]C[SiMe3][PPh2])}2] (4), which then converts to 2 and 3. Thus, surprisingly, in contrast to all other actinide P4 reactivity, although this reaction produces catenation overall it proceeds via P4 cleavage to functionalised P2 units. Hence, this work establishes a proof of concept synthetic cycle for direct fragmentation, catenation, and functionalisation of P4.

Transition-Metal-Mediated Functionalization of White Phosphorus

Recently there has been great interest in the reactivity of transition-metal (TM) centers towards white phosphorus (P4 ). This has ultimately been motivated by a desire to find TM-mediated alternatives to the current industrial routes used to transform P4 into myriad useful P-containing products, which are typically indirect, wasteful, and highly hazardous. Such a TM-mediated process can be divided into two steps: activation of P4 to generate a polyphosphorus complex TM-Pn , and subsequent functionalization of this complex to release the desired phosphorus-containing product. The former step has by now become well established, allowing the isolation of many different TM-Pn products. In contrast, productive functionalization of these complexes has proven extremely challenging and has been achieved only in a relative handful of cases. In this review we provide a comprehensive summary of successful TM-Pn functionalization reactions, where TM-Pn must be accessible by reaction of a TM precursor with P4 . We hope that this will provide a useful resource for continuing efforts that are working towards this highly challenging goal of modern synthetic chemistry.

Black phosphorus-based 2D materials for bone therapy

Since their discovery, Black Phosphorus (BP)-based nanomaterials have received extensive attentions in the fields of electromechanics, optics and biomedicine, due to their remarkable properties and excellent biocompatibility. The most essential feature of BP is that it is composed of a single phosphorus element, which has a high degree of homology with the inorganic components of natural bone, therefore it has a full advantage in the treatment of bone defects. This review will first introduce the source, physicochemical properties, and degradation products of BP, then introduce the remodeling process of bone, and comprehensively summarize the progress of BP-based materials for bone therapy in the form of hydrogels, polymer membranes, microspheres, and three-dimensional (3D) printed scaffolds. Finally, we discuss the challenges and prospects of BP-based implant materials in bone immune regulation and outlook the future clinical application.

Iron-Gallium and Cobalt-Gallium Tetraphosphido Complexes

The synthesis and characterization of two heterobimetallic complexes [K([18]crown-6){(η4-C14H10)Fe(μ-η4:η2-P4)Ga(nacnac)}] (1) (C14H10 = anthracene) and [K(dme)2{(η4-C14H10)Co(μ-η4:η2-P4)Ga(nacnac)}] (2) with strongly reduced P4 units is reported. Compounds 1 and 2 are prepared by reaction of the gallium(III) complex [(nacnac)Ga(η2-P4)] (nacnac = CH[CMeN(2,6-iPr2C6H3)]2) with bis(anthracene)ferrate(1-) and -cobaltate(1-) salts. The molecular structures of 1 and 2 were determined by X-ray crystallography and feature a P4 chain which binds to the transition metal atom via all four P atoms and to the gallium atom via the terminal P atoms. Multinuclear NMR studies on 2 suggest that the molecular structure is preserved in solution.

Nucleophilic Activation of Red Phosphorus for Controlled Synthesis of Polyphosphides

Reactions between red phosphorus (P_red) and potassium ethoxide in various organic solvents under reflux convert this rather inert form of the element to soluble polyphosphides. The activation is hypothesized to proceed via a nucleophilic attack by ethoxide on the polymeric structure of P_red, leading to disproportionation of the latter, as judged from observation of P(OEt)₃ in the reaction products. A range of solvents has been probed, revealing that different polyphosphide anions (P₇^3-, P₁₆^2-, P₂₁^3-, and P₅^-) can be stabilized depending on the combination of the boiling point and dielectric constant (polarity) of the solvent. The effectiveness of activation also depends on the nature of nucleophile, with the rate of reaction between P_red and KOR increasing in the order t-Bu < n-Hex < Et < Me, which is in agreement with the increasing order of nucleophilic strength. Thiolates and amides were also examined as potential activators, but the reaction with these nucleophiles were substantially slower; nonetheless, all reactions between P_red and NaSR yielded exclusively P₁₆^2- as a soluble polyphosphide product.

Organophosphorus chemistry based on elemental phosphorus: advances and horizons

The results of studies on the application of elemental phosphorus for the synthesis of important organophosphorus compounds are surveyed and summarized. Currently, this trend represents a synthetically, environmentally and technologically attractive alternative to classical organophosphorus chemistry based on toxic and corrosive phosphorus chlorides. Direct phosphination and phosphinylation of organic compounds with elemental phosphorus (discussed in the first part of the review) basically extend the range of available phosphines, phosphine chalcogenides and phosphinic acids and provides further development of their synthetic potential (discussed in the second part of the review). It is shown that the breakthrough in this area is largely due to the discovery of reactions of elemental phosphorus (white and red) with various electrophiles in superbasic suspensions and emulsions derived from alkali metal hydroxides and to the development of electrochemical, electrocatalytic and catalytic activation of white phosphorus.

The bibliography includes 299 references.

The reaction behavior of [Cp2Mo2(CO)4(μ,η2:2-P2)] and [Cp′′Ta(CO)2(η4-P4)] towards hydroxide and tert-butyl nucleophiles

The reaction behavior of [Cp₂Mo₂(CO)₄(μ,η^2:2-P₂)] (1) and [Cp′′Ta(CO)₂(η⁴-P₄)] (2), respectively, towards the anions OH⁻ and ^tBu⁻ are reported, which leads to a selective functionalisation of one P atom.

Frontiers in the solution-phase chemistry of homoatomic group 15 Zintl clusters

Recent developments in the solution-phase chemistry of polypnictogen Zintl cluster are discussed, including the preparation of new clusters, wet synthetic methods, and their subsequent small molecule activations.

Functionalization of Pentaphosphorus Cations by Complexation

The chemistry of polyphosphorus cations has rapidly developed in recent years, but their coordination behavior has remained mostly unexplored. Herein, we describe the reactivity of [P5 R2 ]+ cations with cyclopentadienyl metal complexes. The reaction of [CpAr Fe(μ-Br)]2 (CpAr =C5 (C6 H4 -4-Et)5 ) with [P5 R2 ][GaCl4 ] (R=iPr and 2,4,6-Me3 C6 H2 (Mes)) afforded bicyclo[1.1.0]pentaphosphanes (1-R, R=iPr and Mes), showing an unsymmetric "butterfly" structure. The same products 1-R were formed from K[CpAr ] and [P5 R2 ][GaCl4 ]. The cationic complexes [CpAr Co(η4 -P5 R2 )][GaCl4 ] (2-R[GaCl4 ], R=iPr and Cy) and [(CpAr Ni)2 (η3:3 -P5 R2 )][GaCl4 ] (3-R[GaCl4 ]) were obtained from [P5 R2 ][GaCl4 ] and [CpAr M(μ-Br)]2 (M=Co and Ni) as well as by using low-valent "CpAr MI " sources. Anion metathesis of 2-R[GaCl4 ] and 3-R[GaCl4 ] was achieved with Na[BArF24 ]. The P5 framework of the resulting salts 2-R[BArF24 ] can be further functionalized with nucleophiles. Thus reactions with [Et4 N]X (X=CN and Cl) give unprecedented cyano- and chloro-functionalized complexes, while organo-functionalization was achieved with CyMgCl.

Direct functionalization of white phosphorus with anionic dicarbenes and mesoionic carbenes: facile access to 1,2,3-triphosphol-2-ides

A series of unique C₂P₃-ring compounds [(ADC^Ar)P₃] (4) are readily accessible in an almost quantitative yield by the direct functionalization of white phosphorus (P₄) with appropriate anionic dicarbenes [Li(ADC^Ar)].

A series of unique C₂P₃-ring compounds [(ADC^Ar)P₃] (ADC^Ar = ArC{(DippN)C}₂; Dipp = 2,6-iPr₂C₆H₃; Ar = Ph 4a, 3-MeC₆H₄4b, 4-MeC₆H₄4c, and 4-Me₂NC₆H₄4d) are readily accessible in an almost quantitative yield by the direct functionalization of white phosphorus (P₄) with appropriate anionic dicarbenes [Li(ADC^Ar)]. The formation of 1,2,3-triphosphol-2-ides (4a–4d) suggests unprecedented [3 + 1] fragmentation of P₄ into P₃⁺ and P^–. The P₃⁺ cation is trapped by the (ADC^Ar)^– to give 4, while the putative P^– anion reacts with additional P₄ to yield the Li₃P₇ species, a useful reagent in the synthesis of organophosphorus compounds. Remarkably, the P₄ fragmentation is also viable with the related mesoionic carbenes (iMICs^Ar) (iMIC^Ar = ArC{(DippN)₂CCH}, i stands for imidazole-based) giving rise to 4. DFT calculations reveal that both the C₃N₂ and C₂P₃-rings of 4 are 6π-electron aromatic systems. The natural bonding orbital (NBO) analyses indicate that compounds 4 are mesoionic species featuring a negatively polarized C₂P₃-ring. The HOMO–3 of 4 is mainly the lone-pair at the central phosphorus atom that undergoes σ-bond formation with a variety of metal-electrophiles to yield complexes [{(ADC^Ar)P₃}M(CO)_n] (M = Fe, n = 4, Ar = Ph 5a or 4-Me-C₆H₄5b; M = Mo, n = 5, Ar = Ph 6; M = W, n = 5, Ar = 4-Me₂NC₆H₄7).

Ruthenium mediated halogenation of white phosphorus: synthesis and reactivity of the unprecedented P4Cl2 moiety

The transition metal mediated functionalization of P4 is an approach to develop a more sustainable production of organophosphorus compounds. In this paper a ruthenium complex is presented, in which the P4 unit can be selectively converted into new P4R2 molecules in a two-step synthesis. The unsaturated 16 electron species [RuX(Cp*)(PCy3)] (Cp* = C5Me5, X = Cl, Br) reacts with a half equivalent of P4 affording a bimetallic complex bearing a planar P4X2 moiety as a ligand. The latter eliminates chloride anions under reduction with magnesium. In this process the butadiene-like P4Cl2 ligand is converted into two weakly bound P2 units which bridge the ruthenium centers. In the presence of n-BuLi, the P4Cl2 unit can be selectively alkylated, yielding the planar organophosphorus ligand P4nBu2. A detailed analysis of the electronic properties and solid state structures of the compounds combined with DFT calculations and AIM analyses demonstrate that the P4 unit in all complexes acts as an electronically highly flexible, non-innocent ligand.

Challenges and solutions in phosphinate chemistry

Several major challenges still remain in organophosphorus chemistry. Organophosphorus compounds are currently synthesized from phosphorus trichloride (PCl3), even though the final consumer products (such as pesticides, flame-retardants, extractants) do not contain reactive phosphorus-chlorine bonds. In order to bypass phosphorus trichloride, significant interest has been devoted to functionalizing elemental phosphorus (P4, the precursor to PCl3), red phosphorus (Pred), or phosphine (PH3). Yet, phosphinates (ROP(O)H2) are already available on an industrial scale and are the most environmentally benign, but their use as phosphorus trichloride replacements has been completely overlooked until a few years ago. An overview of some of the methodologies developed in my laboratory for P–C and P–O bond-forming reactions through phosphinate chemistry, as well as some selected applications, are presented. Another significant challenge remains the synthesis of P-stereogenic compounds. My group’s recent progress in this area is also discussed. Based on menthol as an inexpensive chiral auxiliary, various menthyl phosphinates can be synthesized. These phosphinates are precursor to P-stereogenic phosphines through well-established literature transformations.

Hydrogenation reaction pathways in chemistry of white phosphorus

Approaches for preparation of P–H bond containing derivatives directly from white phosphorus are summarized in this microreview. Transfer hydrogenation of P4 involving the activation and reaction of white phosphorus in the coordination sphere of transition metal complexes is a convenient and powerful route to the hydrogenated compounds. Electrochemical methods have also become popular in modern synthetic chemistry; these provide easy access to highly reactive intermediates, which can be selectively generated in situ and used for subsequent synthetic processes. These electrochemical routes provide efficient and environmentally safe methods for preparation of phosphorus derivatives bearing P–H bond. The mechanisms of the proposed processes and the nature of the intermediates formed in the overall electrochemical process are disclosed. The methods elaborated operate under the principals of “green chemistry” and can be considered as efficient alternatives to some classical pathways.

Construction of alkyl-substituted pentaphosphido ligands in the coordination sphere of cobalt

Rare mono- and diorganopentaphosphido cobalt complexes are accessible by P-P condensation using the unprecedented, reactive cobalt-gallium tetraphosphido complex [K(dme)₂{(^MesBIAN)Co(μ-η⁴:η²-P₄)Ga(nacnac)}] (2). Compound 2 was prepared in good yield by reaction of [K(Et₂O){(^MesBIAN)Co(η⁴-1,5-cod)}] [1, BIAN = bis(mesitylimino)acenaphthene diimine, cod = 1,5-cyclooctadiene] with [Ga(nacnac)(η²-P₄)] (nacnac = CH[CMeN(2,6-iPr₂C₆H₃)]₂). Reactions with R₂PCl (R = iPr, tBu, and Cy) selectively afford [(^MesBIAN)Co(cyclo-P₅R₂)] (3a-c), which feature η⁴-coordinated 1,1-diorganopentaphosphido ligands. The mechanism of formation of these species has been studied by ³¹P{¹H} NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. In the case of 3a (R = iPr), it was possible to identify the intermediate [(^MesBIAN)Co(μ-η⁴:η²-P₅iPr₂)Ga(nacnac)] (4) by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. A related, monosubstituted organopentaphosphido cobalt complex [(^MesBIAN)Co(μ-η⁴:η¹-P₅ tBu)GaCl(nacnac)] (5) was isolated by reacting dichloroalkylphosphane tBuPCl₂ with 2. Heterobimetallic complexes such as 2 thus may enable the targeted construction of a range of new metal-coordinated polyphosphorus frameworks by P-P condensation.

The new diphosphanylphosphido complexes of tungsten(vi) and molybdenum(vi). Their synthesis, structures and properties

We report on the reactivity of R2P-P(Li)-PR'2 (R = tBu, iPr, R' = NEt2, iPr) towards diimido complexes [(dippN)2MCl2·dme] (M = Mo, W and dipp = 2,6-iPr2C6H3). A series of new complexes with diphosphanylphosphido ligands R2P-P-PR'2 were isolated. The solid-state structures of [(dippN)2M(Cl)(1,2-η-iPr2P-P-PiPr2)] (2Mo and 2W) and [(dippN)2M(Cl){1,2-η-tBu2P-P-P(NEt2)2}] (3Mo and 3W) were established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and indicate a side-on geometry of the R2P-P-PR'2 moiety. 3W and 3Mo are the first triphosphorus complexes with the amido ligand NEt2 on the P atom. [(dippN)2M(Cl)(1,2-η-tBu2P-P-PtBu2)] (1Mo and 1W) and 3Mo and 3W display similar side-on geometry in solution and in the solid state. By contrast, 2Mo and 2W reveal a dynamic behavior in solution. For the first time, the reactivity of diphosphanylphosphido complexes towards different nucleophiles was studied. The complexes react with the phosphorus nucleophile Ph2PLi, yielding phosphanylphosphinidene complexes [(dippN)2M(Cl)(η2-P-PR2)]- Li+ (M = Mo, W) together with related diphosphanes R'2P-PPh2. Carbon nucleophile MeLi does not yield [(dippN)2M(Cl)(η2-P-PR2)]- Li+ but substitutes a Cl ligand at the metal center. Moreover, we compare the coordination of the R2P-P-PR'2 moiety to different metal centers based on DFT methods.

Mono- and dinuclear tetraphosphabutadiene ferrate anions

Reduction of [Cp^ArFe(μ-Br)]₂ (1, Cp^Ar = C₅(C₆H₄-4-Et)₅) by potassium napthalenide, followed by the addition of white phosphorus, affords [K(18-c-6){Cp^ArFe(η⁴-P₄)}] (2, 18-c-6 = [18]crown-6), which features a planar cyclo-P₄^2- ligand. The related diiron complex [Na₂(THF)₅(Cp^ArFe)₂(μ,η^4:4-P₄)] (3) was obtained by reducing 1 with sodium amalgam in the presence of P₄. Protonation of 3 affords [Na(THF)₃][(Cp^ArFe)₂(μ,η^4:4-P₄)(H)] (4), while the reaction of 3 with trimethylchlorosilane gives the nortricyclane compound P₇(SiMe₃)₃ as the main product.

Unusual acid-base properties of the P4 molecule in hydrogen-, halogen-, and pnicogen-bonded complexes

Ab initio MP2/aug'-cc-pVTZ calculations have been carried out to investigate hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding, and pnicogen bonding involving tetrahedral P₄ and the FH, ClH, and FCl molecules. P₄ has three unique interaction sites: at a vertex (designated the P₁ atom); at an edge (the P₂-P₃ bond); and at the P₂-P₃-P₄ face. The uniqueness of molecular P₄ is its ability to act as an electron donor and an electron acceptor at the same site, except for the P₂-P₃ bond, which is only an electron donor. FCl and FH form five different complexes with P₄, but ClH forms only three. The type of complex formed and its binding energy depend on both the interaction site of molecular P₄ and the interacting molecule. For all complexes with FH, ClH, and FCl, the binding energies at a given site with the P₄ molecule acting as the base are greater than the binding energies when P₄ is the acid. Thus, P₄ is a better electron donor than an electron acceptor. Charge-transfer interactions and EOM-CCSD spin-spin coupling constants across hydrogen, halogen, and pnicogen bonds are reported for all of the P₄ complexes. Relative to ¹J(P_i-P_j) in molecular P₄, ¹J(P₁-P₂) coupling constants decrease in absolute value and ¹J(P₂-P₃) coupling constants increase in pnicogen-bonded complexes and the complex with FCl that has a PF halogen bond. Absolute values of ¹J(P₁-P₂) increase and those of ¹J(P₂-P₃) decrease in hydrogen-bonded complexes and complexes with PCl halogen bonds. ¹J(P₁-P₂) and ¹J(P₂-P₃) exhibit a single linear correlation with the corresponding P_i-P_j distances.

Sterically induced reductive linkage of iron polypnictides with bulky lanthanide complexes by ring-opening of THF

Reduction of [Cp*Fe(η⁵-E₅)] (E = P, As) with divalent lanthanide reagents usually leads to reduction of [Cp*Fe(η⁵-E₅)] followed by a Ln-E bond formation. In contrast, by using the sterically encumbered reagent [(DippForm)₂Sm(thf)₂] (DippForm = {(2,6-ⁱPr₂C₆H₃)NC(H)[double bond, length as m-dash]N(2,6-ⁱPr₂C₆H₃)}^-), ring-opening of thf and reduction of the polypnictide is observed. This leads to two new 3d/4f polyphosphide or polyarsenide complexes [(DippForm)₂Sm(Cp*Fe)E₅{(CH₂)₄O}{(DippForm)₂Sm(thf)}], in which [(DippForm)₂Sm(thf)₂] and [Cp*Fe(η⁵-E₅)] are linked by a ring-opened thf molecule and no Ln-E bond formation is observed.

Synthesis and Reactivity of an End-Deck cyclo-P4 Iron Complex

Reduction of the Fe^II complex [(^Ph PP₂^Cy )FeCl₂ ] (2) generated an electron-rich and unsaturated Fe⁰ species, which was reacted with white phosphorus. The resulting new complex, [(^Ph PP₂^Cy )Fe(η⁴ -P₄ )] (3), is the first iron cyclo-P₄ complex and the only known stable end-deck cyclo-P₄ complex outside Group V. Complex 3 features an Fe^II center, as shown by Mössbauer spectroscopy, associated to a P₄^2- fragment. The distinct reactivity of complex 3 was rationalized by analysis of the molecular orbitals. Reaction of complex 3 with H⁺ afforded the unstable complex [(^Ph PP₂^Cy )Fe(η⁴ -P₄ )(H)]⁺ (4), whereas with CuCl and BCF, the complexes [(^Ph PP₂^Cy )Fe(η⁴ :η¹ -P₄ )(μ-CuCl)]₂ (5) and [(^Ph PP₂^Cy )Fe(η⁴ :η¹ -P₄ )B(C₆ F₅ )₃ ] (6) were formed.

The atomic level mechanism of white phosphorous demolition by di-iodine

A detailed mechanism of the I₂-induced transformation of white phosphorus into PI₃ emerges from a DFT analysis. This multi-step process implies that at any stage one P-P and two I-I bonds cleavages, associated with the formation of two P-I bonds plus an in situ generated brand new I₂ molecule. Significant electron transfer between the atoms is observed at any step, but the reactions are better defined as concerted rather than redox. Along the steepest descent to the product, no significant barrier is encountered except for the very first P₄ activation, which costs +14.6 kcal mol^-1. At the atomic level, one first I₂ molecule, a typical mild oxidant, is first involved in a linear halogen bonding interaction (XB) with one P donor, while its terminal I atom is engaged in an additional XB adduct with a second I₂. Significant electron transfer through the combined diatomics allows the external I atom of the dangling I₃ grouping to convey electrons into the σ* level of one P-P bond with its consequent cleavage. This implies at some point the appearance of a six-membered ring, which alternatively switches its bonding and no-bonding interactions. The final transformation of the P₂I₄ diphosphine into two PI₃ phosphines is enlightening also for the specific role of the I substituents. In fact, it is proved that an organo-diphosphine analogue hardly undergoes the separation of two phosphines, as reported in the literature. This is attributable to the particularly high donor power of the carbo-substituted P atoms, which prevents the concertedness of the reaction but favors charge separation in an unreactive ion pair.

Reactivity of bulky Ln(ii) amidinates towards P4, As4, and As4S4

The reduction of P₄, As₄ and As₄S₄ (realgar) with [(DippForm)₂Ln(thf)₂] (Ln = Sm, Yb) led to the first, purely f-element containing inverse inorganic sandwich complexes [{(DippForm)₂Sm}₂(μ²-η⁴:η⁴-E₄)] (E = P, As) and the unusual species [{(DippForm)(DippForm-AsS₂)}Ln(thf)].

Functionalization of P4 through Direct P-C Bond Formation

Research on chlorine-free conversions of P4 into organophosphorus compounds (OPCs) has a long track record, but methods that allow desirable, direct P-C bond formations have only recently emerged. These include the use of metal organyls, carbenes, carboradicals, and photochemical approaches. The versatile product scope enables the preparation of both industrially relevant organophosphorus compounds, as well as a broad range of intriguing new compound classes. Herein we provide a concise overview of recent breakthroughs and outline the acquired fundamental insights to aid future developments.

Metalate-Mediated Functionalization of P4 by Trapping Anionic [Cp*Fe(CO)2(η1-P4)]- with Lewis Acids

The development of selective functionalization strategies of white phosphorus (P4) is important to avoid the current chlorinated intermediates. The use of transition metals (TMs) could lead to catalytic procedures, but these are severely hampered by the high reactivity and unpredictable nature of the tetrahedron. Herein, we report selective first steps by reacting P4 with a metal anion [Cp*Fe(CO)2]- (Cp*=C5(CH3)5), which, in the presence of bulky Lewis acids (LA; B(C6F5)3 or BPh3), leads to unique TM-substituted LA-stabilized bicyclo[1.1.0]tetraphosphabutanide anions [Cp*Fe(CO)2(η1-P4⋅LA)]-. Their P-nucleophilic site can be subsequently protonated to afford the transient LA-free neutral butterflies exo,endo- and exo,exo-Cp*Fe- (CO)2(η1-P4H), allowing controllable stepwise metalate-mediated functionalization of P4.

Structural characterization of framework-gas interactions in the metal-organic framework Co2(dobdc) by in situ single-crystal X-ray diffraction

The crystallographic characterization of framework-guest interactions in metal-organic frameworks allows the location of guest binding sites and provides meaningful information on the nature of these interactions, enabling the correlation of structure with adsorption behavior. Here, techniques developed for in situ single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments on porous crystals have enabled the direct observation of CO, CH4, N2, O2, Ar, and P4 adsorption in Co2(dobdc) (dobdc4- = 2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate), a metal-organic framework bearing coordinatively unsaturated cobalt(ii) sites. All these molecules exhibit such weak interactions with the high-spin cobalt(ii) sites in the framework that no analogous molecular structures exist, demonstrating the utility of metal-organic frameworks as crystalline matrices for the isolation and structural determination of unstable species. Notably, the Co-CH4 and Co-Ar interactions observed in Co2(dobdc) represent, to the best of our knowledge, the first single-crystal structure determination of a metal-CH4 interaction and the first crystallographically characterized metal-Ar interaction. Analysis of low-pressure gas adsorption isotherms confirms that these gases exhibit mainly physisorptive interactions with the cobalt(ii) sites in Co2(dobdc), with differential enthalpies of adsorption as weak as -17(1) kJ mol-1 (for Ar). Moreover, the structures of Co2(dobdc)·3.8N2, Co2(dobdc)·5.9O2, and Co2(dobdc)·2.0Ar reveal the location of secondary (N2, O2, and Ar) and tertiary (O2) binding sites in Co2(dobdc), while high-pressure CO2, CO, CH4, N2, and Ar adsorption isotherms show that these binding sites become more relevant at elevated pressures.

Crystal structure of a P4-bridged (η 5-pentamethyl-cyclopentadienyl)(η 5-adamantylcyclopentadienyl) titanium(III)complex, C50H66P4Ti2

C50H66P4Ti2, orthorhombic, P21212 (no. 18), a = 14.3799(5) Å, b = 15.4444(6) Å, c = 9.5555(5) Å, V = 2122.17(16) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0338, wRref(F2) = 0.0643, T = 153(2) K.