Activation of SiH, BH, and PH Bonds at a Single Nonmetal Center

Abstract

Carbenes more than measure up: Singlet stable carbenes compete with transition metals in the activation of enthalpically strong bonds, as shown by the cleavage of the EH bonds of silanes, boranes, and phosphanes (see scheme). However, in contrast with the electrophilic mode of activation observed with metals, carbenes act as nucleophiles towards these substrates. Dipp=2,6-diisopropylphenyl.