Functionalization of P₄ in the coordination sphere of coinage metal cations

Abstract

Selective functionalization of white phosphorus is achieved by addition of ArLi to unique cationic coinage metal η(2)-P4 complexes. This novel approach allows controlled P-C bond formation using the bulky DmpLi (Dmp = 2,6-Mes2C6H3) and the unencumbered MesLi, giving sterically diverse doubly complexed RP4 butterfly derivatives in a single step.