Synthesis of Low Valent Main Group Element Complexes Using Extremely Bulky Aminopyridinates

In the last few decades, numerous compounds of main group elements in their unusual low oxidation states have been synthesized. These complexes are interesting because of their unusual structure and bonding and their compelling reactivity. Reactivity of these complexes has been extensively exploited in small molecule activation and catalysis. Sterically encumbered ligands provide kinetic stability to main group elements in their low oxidation states through prevention of disproportionation. In this context, we have chosen bulky 2-aminopyridinate ligands to stabilize low valent complexes main group elements. Moreover, these ligands have not been utilized to stabilize main group elements in their low oxidation state as of yet. Here we report 2-aminopyridinate stabilized several low valent complexes of group 14 and 15 elements.