Fluorenyl-tethered N-heterocyclic carbene complexes of the heavy alkali metals

Abstract

The coordination chemistry of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) with Group 1 metals remains comparatively underdeveloped relative to their extensive application across the periodic table. Herein, we describe the synthesis of rubidium and caesium complexes incorporating a fluorenyl-tethered NHC ligand. Additionally, the first heterobimetallic Cs/Li NHC complex was obtained via treatment with a combination of alkali metal amide bases.