Bis (α-iminopyridine) Stabilized Dimeric Sb(II) and Bi(II) Tetra-cation : Bond Lability Based Reactivity

Abstract

Bis(alpha-iminopyridine) stabilized distibane tetra-cationic [1]2 and dibismuthane tetra-cationic [2]2 compounds have been synthesized. Both the compounds have been characterized in the solid-state using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and NMR techniques in the solution state. These dimeric species exist in equilibrium with their monomeric radical species which have been characterized using EPR techniques and absorption spectroscopy. Furthermore, reactivity study of [1]2 have been performed with O₂, E₂Ph₂ (E = S, Se), 1,4-benzoquinone, and TEMPO giving compounds 3-6. All the compounds have been characterized using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The formation of compounds 3-6 confirm the homolytic cleavage of [1]2 in the solution. The bonding features of [1]2 and [2]2 have been established through computational study.