Synthesis, characterization and electrochemical behavior of some N-heterocyclic carbene-containing active site models of [FeFe]-hydrogenases

Five N-heterocyclic carbene H-cluster model compounds (1-5), as well as the propylene-bridged imidazolium salt [I∗Mes(CH2)3I∗Mes]⋯2HBr have been synthesized and crystallographically characterized. H2 evolution is observed catalyzed by 2 under electrochemical conditions.