The 2,2′-diindolylmethane dianion supporting scaffold for group 15 compounds

Deprotonated 2,2′-diindolylmethane functions as a dianionic chelating ligand for the isolation and characterization of the group 15 species {ArCH(3-MeC8H4N)2}PCl (2) and {ArCH(3-MeC8H4N)2}SbNMe2 (6, Ar = p-C6H4Br). The single crystal X-ray structure of 2 revealed a six-membered heterocycle featuring an N–P–N bonding motif and a terminal P–Cl function. The antimony complex 6 is a rare example of an N-heterocyclic aminostibine. DFT computations were used to examine the energies of isomers for these compounds and to describe the bonding features of the diindolyl fragment with the group 15 cation.

Deprotonated 2,2′-diindolylmethane dianion is a chelating ligand for the isolation and characterization of the group 15 species {3-Me(NC8H4)2CHAr}PCl and {3-Me(NC8H4)2CHAr}SbNMe2 (7, Ar = p-C6H4Br). DFT computations examine the energies and bonding features of these compounds.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► First examples of group 15 (e.g. P and Sb) compounds of 2,2′-diindolylmethane dianion.
► Two different synthetic strategies employed in the synthesis.
► Antimony complex is a rare example of an N-heterocyclic aminostibine.
► Bonding features of the diindolyl fragment with the group 15 cation are examined through DFT computational analysis.