The formation, reactivity and interconversion of novel small eta(1)- and eta(3)-triazacyclononane complexes of rhodium(I) and rhodium(III)

We have successfully synthesised and characterised a number of eta(1)- and eta(3)-triazacyclononane Rh(I) and Rh(III) derivatives. By using different reaction conditions, we have been able to convert one of the eta(1)-triazacyclononane complexes to an eta(3)-derivative. Also, we have observed a rare example of an addition of an organic fragment to a metal bound ligand to form a quaternary carbon centre.