Reaction of 2-(Alkylthiomethyl)phenyllithium with Copper(I) Halides and Structure and Properties of One of the Products—Copper(I) Complexes of 2,2′-Bis(alkylthiomethyl)biphenyl

Abstract

Abstract The title reactions did not afford the corresponding organocopper compound as a stable entity, but rather a dimerized biphenyl compound (2,2′-bis(alkylthiomethyl)biphenyl), its copper(I) halide complex, and alkyl benzyl sulfide. Their yields were influenced by the kind of halides in the copper reagent. The stability and reactivity of the intermediate organocopper compound is discussed on the basis of the ligand-metal interactions. The copper(I) halide complex with the biphenyl which carries two sulfane ligands has a unique polymeric structure in crystals, as evidenced by X-ray analysis, whereas it dissociates into a monomeric form on dissolution in organic solvents. The properties of the complexes were examined by NMR and XPS as well.