X-Ray diffraction studies on catalysis: the crystal structure of di-µ-chloro-bis[(2′–3′-η-exo-3-allylnorborn-2-yl)palladium] and comparison with related complexes relevant to the polymerization of norbornene

Abstract

The crystal structure of the title complex [a= 11.057(2), b= 7.346(1), c= 6.537(1)Å, α= 80° 32′(2′), β= 104° 31′(2′), γ= 94° 39′(2′), space group P] has been determined from X-ray diffractometer data and refined by least squares to R= 0.040. Evidence is given for the existence of two factors relevant to catalytic activity: (i) a strong trans influence on the bridging chloride ions favouring dissociation into mononuclear active species; and (ii) a relatively small π component in the metal–olefin bond. These and other structural features are compared with those of similar binuclear complexes.