Synthesis and structure of [Fc(RO)PS2]− complexes

Abstract

Reaction of Fc(S)PS₂P(S)Fc with NaOR [R = Me, ⁱPr] gives the non symmetric phosphonodithioato anions [Fc(RO)PS₂]⁻ which can be complexed to a range of metals. The square planar NiL₂ complexes adopt two distinct configurations, ‘trans’ with the ferrocenyl groups above and below the square plane and ‘cis’ with the ferrocenyl groups on the same side of the square plane. There is good evidence that the isomerisation occurs via a cis-ML₂(solv)₂ intermediate. The zinc and cadmium complexes adopt dimeric M₂L₄ structures whilst the PbL₂ complex has a distorted pyramidal structure and forms infinite chains via Pb⋯S interactions. All new compounds have been characterised spectroscopically and seven demonstrative X-ray structures are reported.