A two-coordinate manganese(0) complex with an unsupported Mn-Mg bond: allowing access to low coordinate homo- and heterobimetallic compounds.

ABSTRACT

This study details the synthesis and characterization of an unprecedented two-coordinate, high-spin manganese(0) complex that incorporates an unsupported Mn-Mg bond, viz. L(†)MnMg((Mes)Nacnac) (L(†) = -N(Ar(†))(SiPr(i)3), Ar(†) = C6H2{C(H)Ph2}2Pr(i)-2,6,4; (Mes)Nacnac = [(MesNCMe)2CH](-); Mes = mesityl). This compound has been utilized as an "inorganic Grignard reagent" in the preparation of the first two-coordinate manganese(I) dimer, L(†)MnMnL* (L* = -N(Ar*)(SiMe3), Ar* = C6H2{C(H)Ph2}2Me-2,6,4), and the related mixed valence, bis(amido)-hetereobimetallic complex, Mn(II)(µ-L(†))(µ-L*)Cr(0). It is also shown to act as a two-electron reducing agent in reactions with unsaturated substrates.