Synthesis and reactivity of late transition metal complexes bearing a pincer-type diphosphinesulfoxide ligand

A new pincer-type diphosphinesulfoxide ligand ("SOP_2") has been synthesized and complexed to a no. of middle and late transition metals. The central sulfoxide donor behaves as a σ donor and a Π acceptor, which has been chem. Demonstrated by the prepn. of (SOP_2)IrCl and its ability to bind dioxygen analogously to Vaska's complex. The suitability of this ligand architecture to accommodate both low-valent group 9 and 10 metal centers as well as high-valent centers with strongly Π-donating ligands trans to the sulfoxide donor will be the primary focus of discussion.