Highly efficient [Ni{iPrHNC(S)NP(S)(OiPr)2-1,3-N,S′}2]/PR3 (R3 = Me3, Me2Ph) complexes for the generation of Ni0 for catalysis

Abstract

We have developed new complexes of the type [Ni{iPrHNC(S)NP(S)(OiPr)₂-1,3-N,S′}₂]/PR₃ (R₃ = Me₃, Me₂Ph) for the generation of Ni⁰ catalysts which can be used for the catalytic addition of Ph₂S₂ to 1-, 2- and 3-hexynes. A detailed study of the catalytic reaction mechanism suggests two possible pathways for the in situ formation of Ni⁰ species, depending on the presence or absence of water.