Abstract
The complexes C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]CH3 (R = CH3, C6H5, C6H4-o-CH3) are obtained in good yields starting from C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]Cl and LiCH3 in ether/toluene. The nickel-to-methyl bond is easily split by HCl, CCl4 or I2 to form the corresponding halides C5H5Ni-[P(OR)3]X (X = Cl, I). C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]CH3 reacts with CF3COO) to give C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]OCOCF3 as the primary product which further reacts to yield [C5H5Ni-(P(OR)3) 2](CF3COO). Some unsuccessful attempts to obtain an ortho-metalated compound by HCl or CH4 elimination from C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]Cl or C5H5Ni [P(OR)3]CH3 (R = C6H4-o-CH3) are briefly discussed.