The reactivity of N-heterocyclic germylenes and stannylenes based on 9,10-phenanthrendiimines towards metal carbonyls and sulfur.

Abstract The reactivity of germylene and stannylene based on 9,10-phenanthrenediimine are described. Complexes of nickel and iron carbonyls with a coordinated germylene were obtained in good yields under mild conditions. The abilities of germylene to be involved in oxidative addition reactions with preserving of N-heterocycle were demonstrated in reactions with dithio-bis(tricarbonyliron) and elemental sulfur. All the compounds were characterized structurally by X-ray diffraction analysis.