A Co2N2 diamond-core resting state of cobalt(I): A three-coordinate CoI synthon invoking an unusual pincer-type rearrangement

Abstract

Unmasking the truth: The dimer [{(μ2-PNP)Co}2] (Co light blue, N dark blue, P green, C gray, only one carbon atom of the isopropyl groups shown; PNP = [N{2-P-(CHMe2)2-4-MeC 6H3}2]-) contains a Co 2N2 diamond core and bridging PNP ligands. Upon reaction with ClCPh3, CO, or N2, rearrangement of the PNP ligands to a terminal chelating mode is observed to give four-coordinate Co complexes such as [{(PNP)Co}2(μ2-N2)]. (Chemical Equation Presented). © 2006 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.