Bis(trimethylsilyl)-diimin: Zur reaktion mit alkalimetallen

Bis(trimethylsilyl)diimine (BSD) is reduced by alkali metals (Li, Na, K) in diethyl ether to the dianion (BSD^2?) and in tetrahydrofuran to the radical anion (BSD^-). The radical anion is thermally unstable and decomposes (a) to nitrogen and bis(trimethylsilyl) amide and (b) to bis(trimethylsilyl) amide, bis(trimethylsilyl) hydrazide and azide. The ratio of the yields of reaction (a) and (b) depends on the alkali metal cation, the temperature and the solvent.