Chemistry of tris(phosphino)borate supported iron compounds featuring metal-nitrogen multiple bonding

Abstract

Iron compounds featuring metal-ligand multiple bonds have been postulated in both biological and catalytic processes. Synthetically, however, isolated examples of such compounds have remained relatively elusive. To this extent, we have employed the anionic tris(phosphino)borate ligand [PhB(CH_2PPh_2)_3]- for the synthesis of iron compounds featuring metal-nitrogen multiple bonds; including monomeric terminal imides. The synthesis, properties, and reactivity of these compounds will be presented, highlighting both group transfer chemistry and the hydrogenolytic cleavage of an iron-nitrogen triple bond.