Bis[(trimethylsilyl)methyl]- and bis(neopentyl)-zinc, and tris[(trimethylsilyl)methyl]aluminium–diethyl ether (1/1); their use as alkylating agents in forming niobium and tantalum alkyls

Abstract

Synthesis of bis[(trimethylsilyl)methyl)]zinc, tris[(trimethylsilyl)methyl]aluminium–diethyl ether (1/1), and bis(neopentyl)zinc is described. Interaction of the first two compounds with tantalum pentachloride affords (Me₃SiCH₂)TaCl₄, (Me₃SiCH₂)₂TaCl₃, and (Me₃SiCH₂)₃TaCl₂, and with NbCl₅, (Me₃SiCH₂)₃NbCl₂. Bis(neopentyl)zinc reacts similarly. Adducts of the zinc, niobium, and tantalum alkyls with amines are also described.