Synthesis of (η3-allyl)(η4-cyclo-octa-1,5-diene) nickel cations: valuable catalysts for the oligomerization of alkenes

Abstract

η ³ -Allylnickel cations stabilised by ‘labile’ ligands, obtained by metathetical exchange of η³-allylnickel halides with non-complexing anions in the presence of dienes or donating solvents, are efficient catalysts for the oligomerization of unsaturated hydrocarbons and lead to unusual selectivities and to new η³-allylnickel complexes which may be intermediates in these reactions.