An N-heterocyclic carbene containing a bithiophene backbone: synthesis and coordination chemistry.

A new N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) containing a fused bithiophene backbone has been synthesized along with its silver(I) and BPh(3) complexes. The donor strength of this unique NHC has been determined from the IR stretching frequencies of the isolated NHC-Rh(CO)(2)Cl complex. The photophysical properties of all of the novel compounds have been investigated and are presented.