Synthesis of Bis{1,2,4-tri(tert-butyl)cyclopentadienyl}mercury by Transfer of Alkylated Cyclopentadienyl Rings from Bismuth to Mercury (Transmetallation)

Bis{1,2,4-tri(tert-butyl)cyclopentadienyl}mercury 2 has been obtained by sodium amalgam reduction of Chlorobis{1,2,4-tri(tert-butyl)cyclopentadienyl}bismuth. The crystal structure of 2 (P1 , a = 10.564(4) Å, b = 11.8230(10) Å, c = 15.546(4) Å, α = 69.160(10)°, β = 82.49(2)°, γ = 64.100(10)°, V = 1 631.7(8) ų) consists of a linear two-coordinated mercury complex with σ bonded tri(tert-butyl)cyclopentadienyl rings. In solution 2 is fluxional on the NMR time scale even at 165 K.