Noninnocent Behavior of PCP and PCN Pincer Ligands of Late Metal Complexes

Abstract

Pincer complexes are generally viewed as stable compounds in which the pincer ligand framework remains unchanged during stoichiometric and catalytic reactions. However, there are now several cases in which the pincer ligand itself undergoes transformations that result in extraordinary reactivity of the metal complex and formation of unusual species. In the current chapter, we review our work on “noninnocent” reactivity modes of various PCP and PCN-type pincer ligands of Rh, Ir, Ru, Os, Pd, and Pt. Participation of the arene ring in the reactivity of PCP type complexes has led to formation of unprecedented quinonoid complexes, including complexes in which the pincer ligand adopts structures of quinone methides, thio-quinone methides, xylylenes, methylene arenium, and oxo-arenium compounds. In addition, pincer systems can collapse and be regenerated under redox conditions, and reduction can lead to a ring-localized radical anion complex. The generation of C–H agostic arene PCP complexes has led to new insights regarding the C–H bond activation process, and the effect of CO ligands on it.