Synthesis and reactivity of rhodium(I) complexes of the type Rh(L-L)(CO)[P(OPh)3] and Rh(L-L)[P(OPh)3]2

Summary The carbonyl ligands in the Rh¹ complexes Rh(L-L)(CO)₂ [L-L=anthranilate (AA) orN-phenylanthranilate(FA) ions] are replaced by P(OPh)₃ to form the mono-or disubstituted products, Rh(L-L)(CO)[P(OPh)₃] and Rh(L-L)[P(OPh)₃]₂ respectively depending on the [P(OPh)₃]/[Rh] molar ratio, at room temperature and in air. Under argon at [P(OPh)₃]/[Rh]4 theortho-metallated Rh¹ complex Rh[P(OPh)₃]₃[P(OC₆H₄)-OPh)₂] is formed. The new route forortho-metallated Rh¹ complex synthesis is described.The Rh(AA)(CO)₂ complex was used as a catalyst precursor in hydroformylation of olefins.