Synthesis and structural characterization of a C4 cumulene including 4-pyridylidene units, and its reactivity towards ammonia-borane

Abstract

A novel type of C₄ cumulene derivative featuring 4-pyridylidene units has been synthesized. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the presence of consecutive CC double bonds in the C₄ backbone as well as the quinoidal pyridylidene structure. This C₄ cumulene derivative readily reacted with ammonia-borane, which resulted in transfer hydrogenation of the central CC double bond.