Gold(III) π‐Allyl Complexes

Abstract

Gold(III) π-complexes have been authenticated recently with alkenes, alkynes, and arenes. The key importance of Pd^II π-allyl complexes in organometallic chemistry (Tsuji-Trost reaction) prompted us to explore gold(III) π-allyl complexes, which have remained elusive so far. The (P,C)Au^III (allyl) and (methallyl) complexes 3 and 3' were readily prepared and isolated as thermally and air-stable solids. Spectroscopic and crystallographic analyses combined with detailed DFT calculations support tight quasi-symmetric η³ -coordination of the allyl moiety. The π-allyl gold(III) complexes are activated towards nucleophilic additions, as substantiated with β-diketo enolates.