Stepwise B–H bond activation of a meta-carborane?

Inorganic Chemistry Frontiers Pub Date: 2021-08-10 DOI: 10.1039/D1QI00732G

Abstract

Stepwise multiple B–H bond activation is a major challenge in synthetic chemistry. Herein, we have developed a controlled stepwise method to monitor the process of B–H bond activation based on a meta-carborane. In this process, the metallacyclic 3 [Pd2(C10N2H8)2(SCNPh)4(m-C2B10H10)2] can be achieved through non-covalent bond interactions between the carboranylthioamide ligand and transition metal fragment. Importantly, it slowly converts to product 4 [Pd(C10N2H8)(SCNPh)(SCNHPh)(m-C2B10H9)] via mono B–H bond activation, and then a second B–H activation leads to 5 [Pd2(C10N2H8)2(SCNPh)2(m-C2B10H8)]. The obtained organometallic palladium pincer complex shows acid–base responsive behaviour, namely reversible structural transformation between the mononuclear pincer complex and a trimetallic Pd/S metallacycle. This work provides a potential strategy for exploring the mechanisms of B–H bond activation.

Graphical abstract: Stepwise B–H bond activation of a meta-carborane
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