Low-coordinate iridium NHC complexes derived from selective and reversible C–H bond activation of fluoroarenes

Abstract

Interaction of the reactive 14 VE {Ir(IBioxMe₄)₃}⁺ fragment with fluoroarenes results exclusively in ortho-C–H bond oxidative addition and formation of 16 VE Ir(III) derivatives [Ir(IBioxMe₄)₃(Ar)H]⁺ (Ar = 2-C₆H₄F, 2,3-C₆H₃F₂, 2,4,6-C₆H₂F₃). The C–H bond activation reactions occur under mild conditions and are reversible.