Organogold(I) complexes : Synthesis, X-ray crystal structures and aurophilicity

Abstract The synthesis of RAuPPh 3 (R = aryl) from ClAuPPh 3 and Grignard RM reagents (M = Li or MgX) is described. New (vinylphenyl)gold(I) and other arylgold(I) complexes were characterized by 1 H, 13 C, 31 P, 19 F NMR, melting point determination, and X-ray diffraction. Crystallographic studies of some organogold(I) complexes indicate an aurophilic Au(I)⋯Au(I) attraction.