Abstract

The complex [(nacnac)Ti(OAr)](2)((2):(2),(2)-P-2) (1) is formed via reductive decarbonylation of the phosphaethynolate ion (-)[OCP], which serves as a P atom source. Complex 1 is the first structurally characterized Group 4 transition metal P-2 complex and its structure reveals the rhombic Ti2P2 core is essentially planar with short bond lengths suggesting some degree of multiple bonding character between the Ti-P and P-P sites. Computational studies of 1 provide an understanding of the Ti2P2 core as well as the origin of the highly downfield (PNMR)-P-31 spectroscopic signal.