The Synthesis and Reactivity of New Niobium (V) Polyhydrides

Author: Olson, Wendy Ann

Year: 1983

Degree: Master's thesis

Advisor: Bercaw, John E.

Committee Member: Unknown, Unknown

Option: Chemistry

DOI: 10.7907/e6p9-e788

Abstract

The synthesis of new niobium polyhydrides by high pressure hydrogenation of CpNbMe_4 in the presence of trapping phosphines is reported. The complexes CpNbL_2H_4, L=PMe_3, PMe_2Ph, PMe_2Cy, and L_2=bis(dimethylphosphino)ethane, are described. They exchange D_2 into the hydride positions, and react hydridically with methanol and acetone to give alkoxide species. Reactions with CO give reduced metal carbonyl phosphine complexes. All these reactions (except the reaction with methanol) appear to proceed with loss of phosphine as the rate limiting step. Reactions of the hydride species with group VI carbonyls, and with ethylene, are presented. The novel reactivity of CpNb(PMe_2Ph)_2H_4 with H_2 to give CpNb(PMe_2Cy)_2H_4 is discussed.

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