Activation of Small Molecules by U(III) Cyclooctatetraene and Pentalene Complexes

Abstract

The low-valent complexes of uranium (i.e. those containing U(III) centres) are characterisedas reactive, highly reducing species that can effect novel, and potentially useful, transformationsof small molecules. In this chapter we review one particular class of these compounds – thosesupported by cyclooctatetraene and pentalene ligands – whose reduction chemistry has recentlydemonstrated novel and unexpected results, including the cyclooligomerisation of CO. The synthesesand structures of these compounds are presented, and their reactivity towards a variety of smallmolecules is examined and reviewed. The reactivity towards carbon monoxide is discussed in referenceto the historical development of obtaining oxocarbons from CO.