Structural constraint at a P–P bond: phosphinophosphination of alkenes, alkynes, and carbonyls by a concerted mechanism

Abstract

Structurally constraining p-block elements has become a powerful strategy for bond activation chemistry with main group compounds. Traditionally, this approach focuses on mononuclear centers, yet applying structural constraints to systems with element–element bonds remains underexplored. In this study, we introduce a cation featuring a structural constraint-elongated P–P bond that spontaneously adds to unactivated alkynes, alkenes, aldehydes, and ketones. Despite its positive charge, the surprisingly apolar P–P⁺ bond promotes phosphinophosphination via a concerted, highly regio- and diastereoselective mechanism. This unique reactivity opens pathways to novel seven-membered phosphorus heterocycles with customizable optical properties and a structurally varied array of ligands for transition metal coordination.