A convenient synthesis of bis(phosphino)methanes: Formation of a nickel(II) bis(phosphino)methane monoxide complex

The reaction of (trimethylsilyl)methyl phosphines R2PCH2SiMe3 with chlorophosphines ClPR2′ provides ready access to a range of symmetrical or non-symmetrical diphosphinomethanes R2PCH2PR2′. The products are obtained cleanly and can be used directly in the synthesis of transition metal complexes. This is illustrated by the preparation and structural characterization of the corresponding NiCl2(P–P) derivatives.

Symmetrical and non-symmetrical diphosphinomethane ligands are readily accesible through the condensation of trimethylsilylmethylphosphines with chlorophosphines. The diphoshphines are obtained cleanly and can be used directly in the synthesis of nickel(II) complexes.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide