Unsolvated [KFl(SiPh3)]n (Fl = fluorenyl): A supramolecular chain structure assembled exclusively through K⋯C–π-bonding

Unsolvated potassium 9-triphenylsilylfluorenide, [KFl(SiPh3)]n (3, Fl = fluorenyl), has been prepared in 89% yield by metalation of 9-fluorenyltriphenylsilane (2) with potassium hydride in toluene/THF and structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction. In the solid state, compound 3 comprises a linear chain structure. Due to the absence of coordinating solvent molecules, supramolecular self-assembly occurs solely via K⋯C–π-bonding.

Graphical abstractUnsolvated potassium 9-triphenylsilylfluorenide, [KFl(SiPh3)]n (3, Fl = fluorenyl), has been prepared in 89% yield by metalation of 9-fluorenyltriphenylsilane (2) with potassium hydride in toluene/THF and structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction. In the solid state, compound 3 comprises a linear chain structure. Due to the absence of coordinating solvent molecules, supramolecular self-assembly occurs solely via K⋯C–π-bonding.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Unsolvated potassium 9-triphenylsilylfluorenide was prepared in high yield. ► In the solid state, [KFl(SiPh3)]n comprises a linear chain structure. ► Supramolecular self-assembly in [KFl(SiPh3)]n occurs solely via K⋯C–π-bonding. ► The coordination of the [Fl(SiPh3)]− anion is μ-η3:η5:η6:η6-bridging.