Manganese-mediated synthesis of an NHC core non-symmetric pincer ligand and evaluation of its coordination properties

Abstract

The alkylation of N-(2-pyridyl)imidazole by the Mn^I methylene-phosphonium complex [Cp(CO)₂Mn(η²-P,C-Ph₂PC(H)Ph)]BF₄ offers a straightforward route to a tridentate pro-ligand featuring an NHC core and phosphine/pyridine arms. The ability of this PĈN ligand to coordinate in a pincer mode was recognized in Rh^I, Rh^III, and Ni^II complexes.