Direct P-functionalization of azobenzene by a cationic phosphidozirconocene complex†
Abstract
We report that the cationic phosphidozirconocene complex [(η5-C5H5)2Zr(PCy2)][CH3B(C6F5)3] (II) reacts with azobenzene, resulting in the expedient formation of Zr complex (2) bound to a tridentate PNN ligand. This reaction proceeds by a mechanism of cooperative nucleophilic substitution of hydrogen. The intermediate σH adduct (1) has been characterized by NMR spectroscopy.