Electron -rich metal complexes with multiple NHC donor ligands : systhesis, characterization and reactivity

Abstract

We have synthesized several ruthenium metal complexes with NHC donor ligands and NHC donor based pincer ligands. Interestingly, we have observed a complex containing not so common “abnormal” carbene bonded to the metal. This complex was fully characterized including single crystal x-ray structure. Other complexes having carbene based pincer ligands have also been synthesized and characterized. The catalytic activity of abnormal carbene based Ru(III) complex towards hydrogen transfer reactions for the conversion of ketone to alcohol has been explored. These complexes are potential candidate as a catalyst for several organic transformations.