Compounds with boron-boron multiple bonding are generally highly electron-rich species and strong reductants. However, we have discovered a number of intriguing cationic compounds that contain varying degrees of B–B multiple bonding, namely diborenium (mono/di)cations and radical cations. These compounds combine a range of seemingly incompatible properties such as hypovalency, multiple bonding, positive charge and unpaired electrons. Thus, they are fascinating subjects for fundamental investigation, while their simultaneous electron-rich and -poor character potentially makes them powerful main-group ambiphiles with the ability to activate inert small molecules. This project aims to explore the synthetic scope of these cations as well as their rich further reactivity.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
