Preparation of a cyclic trimer with a Ni3P3 core: aggregation and conformation driven by steric demand

摘要

Reaction of the secondary phosphine tridentate Schiff's base ligand o-C6H4(OH)(CH=N{CH2}(2)PHPh) with nickel chloride results in double deprotonation of the ligand and formation of a highly unusual trimeric structure; the cyclic Ni3P3 core adopts a distorted boat conformation in which phosphide donors bridge between the metal centres in preference to phenolate. [References: 16]