The unusual coordination chemistry of phosphorus-rich linear and cyclic oligophosphanide anions

In this review, the synthesis, reactivity and properties of linear and cyclic oligophosphanides are described. Specifically the structures and versatile reactivity of the anionic ligands (P4R4)2− (R = But, Ph, Mes), (P4HR4)− (R = Ph and Mes) and cyclo-(P5But4)− towards main group and transition metal complexes is elucidated. In addition, potential application of metal oligophosphanides as precursors for the preparation of metal phosphides is also briefly discussed.