| Abstract: | The complex (η5-C5H5)Fe(CO)]2-μ-dppe (dppe = ethane-1,2-bisdiphenylphosphide) (I) reacts with electrophiles through a η-CO and forms Lewis acid O-Adducts with alkylating reagents (giving cationic μ2-alkoxycarbyne compounds) or with alkulaluminum compounds. Treatment of I with acid affords a stable μ2-hydride salt (IV), CpFe(CO)]2(μ2-dppe)+, which serves as an intermediate in the stepwise hydrogenation (reversibly) of I to a bridged bimetallic dihydride, CpFe(CO)H]2-μ2-dppe. This dihydride serves as a hydride donor, regenerating IV, towards Ph3c+ or CpFe(CO)2(η2-CH2---CH2)+ hydride acceptors. The necessity of the μ2-dppe as a “mechanical linkage” in facilitating some bimetalic reactions is also established. |
