Unique 2:1 Complex with a <i>trans</i>-Chelating Bis-Pyridine Ligand

Abstract

The trans-chelating ligand 1,2-bis(2'-pyridylethynyl)benzene (1) was prepared in a single step by a Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction. Treatment of 1 with trans-bis(acetonitrile)palladium chloride provides the complex [Pd(1)Cl2] while treatment with tetrakis(acetonitrile)palladium(II) tetrafluoroborate provides the 2:1 complex [Pd(1)2](BF4]2. The structural, spectroscopic, and thermal properties of 1 and its Pd(II) complexes are examined.