Reactive p-block cations stabilized by weakly coordinating anions

Area of Science:

• * P-block element chemistry, encompassing fundamental and applied research.
• * Exploration of bonding characteristics from electron-deficient to hypercoordinate and hypervalent states.

Background:

• * P-block elements offer unique bonding capabilities, presenting opportunities for novel chemical discoveries.
• * The formation of cations with p-block elements is crucial for applications requiring Lewis acidity and for theoretical validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To comprehensively review reactive p-block cations (rPBCs) published since 2000, including seminal earlier works.
• * To provide an overview of weakly coordinating anions (WCAs) used for rPBC stabilization.
• * To detail ionization strategies and present a systematic list of rPBCs by group (13-18).

Main Methods:

• * Literature review focusing on rPBCs with crystal structures.
• * Inclusion of key earlier studies and milestones in p-block cation research.
• * Exclusion of common organic cations and non-reactive species.

Main Results:

• * Compilation of a comprehensive list of rPBCs, detailing their properties and stabilization.
• * Overview of WCA selection criteria and ionization techniques for rPBC synthesis.
• * Systematic organization of rPBCs by their position in the periodic table (Groups 13-18).

Conclusions:

• * The review serves as a valuable resource for researchers interested in p-block cation chemistry.
• * It aids in understanding the possibilities and preparative strategies for synthesizing and utilizing rPBCs.
• * Highlights the potential role of rPBCs as intermediates or active centers in various chemical applications.