Transformation of acyclic alkenes to hydrido carbynes by (PNP(R))Re complexes

Synthesis of (PNP(R))ReOCl(2) (PNP(R) = (R(2)PCH(2)SiMe(2))(2)N, R = (i)()Pr, Cy, and (t)()Bu) from (Me(2)S)(2)ReOCl(3) and (PNP(R))MgCl is described. Magnesium and H(2) convert (PNP(R))ReOCl(2) first to (PNP(R))ReO(H)(2) and then to (PNP(R))Re(H)(4), the last being an operationally unsaturated species which can bind PMe(3) or p-toluidine. Acyclic alkenes react with (PNP(R))Re(H)(4) at 22 degrees C to give first (PNP(R))Re(H)(2)(olefin) and then (PNP(R))ReH(carbyne), in equilibrium with its eta(2)-olefin adduct. Re can also migrate to the terminal carbon of internal olefins to form a carbyne complex. Allylic C-SiMe(3) or C-NH(2) bonds are not broken, but OEt, OPh, and F vinyl substituents (X) are ultimately cleaved from carbon to give the ReC-CH(3) complex and liberate HX. DFT calculations, together with detection of intermediates for certain olefins, help to define a mechanism for these conversions.