Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, and crystal structure of the bimetallic complex...

The dinuclear Ni(0) complex [Ni2(mu-CO)(CO)2(mu-dppa)2] (1; dppa = bis(diphenylphosphino)amine) was synthesized by two routes in good yield. Complex 1 has a triclinic crystal system and P1 space group, with a = 13.009(1) A, b = 13.063(2) A, c = 14.664(2) A, alpha = 79.91(1) degrees, beta = 79.96(1) degrees, gamma = 71.32(1) degrees, and Z = 2. The structure of this compound exhibits two mu-coordinated dppa ligands in a cis, cis arrangement. Nickel atoms are at a 2.5824(7) A distance. Theoretical calculations predict a 0.39 bond order between metal atoms. The cyclic voltammograms show two quasi-reversible redox pairs, which correspond to the successive oxidation of the metal centers. The dinuclear complex described absorbs carbon monoxide, yielding a mixture of nickel carbonyl compounds.