Extending N-heterocyclic carbene ligands into the third dimension: A new type of hybrid phosphazane/NHC system

Abstract

A simple, "click" synthetic approach to a new type of hybrid phosph(III)azane/NHC system is described. The presence of the phosphazane P2N2 ring unit, with P atoms flanking the NCN fragment and with this ring perpendicular to the binding site of the NHC, provides unique opportunities for modifying the electronic and steric character of these carbenes.