Synthesis and reactivity of nickel complexes supported by the tris(phosphino) borate ligand [PhB(Ch_2PPh_2)_3]^-

The chemistry of nickel complexes supported by phosphine donor ligands has gained recent interest due to the ability of these species to catalyze a variety of chemical transformations. A series of divalent, monovalent, and zerovalent nickel complexes supported by the strongly electron-releasing, monoanionic tris(phosphino) borate ligand, [PhBP_3]=[PhB(CH_2PPh 2)_3]^-, have been synthesized to explore their coordination chemistry and reactivity. The characterization of these complexes will be presented, with comparisons drawn to isostructural nickel complexes supported by neutral phosphine ligands.