Nonvolatile Me(3)P-like P-donor ligand: synthesis and properties of 4-phenyl-1-phospha-4-silabicyclo[2.2.2]octane

[reaction: see text] A new trialkylphosphine ligand with Me(3)P-like steric and electronic properties, 4-phenyl-1-phospha-4-silabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (Ph-SMAP), was synthesized. Given a phenyl group at the silicon atom, the Ph-SMAP ligand displayed nonvolatility with retention of Me(3)P-like properties. The new ligand was air-stable, crystalline, and easy to handle.