1,2-Bis(dimethylphosphino)ethane
1,2-Bisethane is a diphosphine ligand in coordination chemistry. It is a colorless, air-sensitive liquid that is soluble in organic solvents. With the formula, dmpe is used as a compact strongly basic spectator ligand, Representative complexes include V, Mn, TcCl, and NiCl.
Synthesis
It is synthesised by the reaction of methylmagnesium iodide with 1,2-bis(dichlorophosphino)ethane:Alternatively it can be generated by alkylation of sodium dimethylphosphide.
The synthesis of dmpe from thiophosphoryl chloride has led to serious accidents and has been abandoned.
Related ligands
- Bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)ethane, a bulkier analogue, which is also a solid.
- 1,2-Bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane, more air-stable than dmpe, but less basic.
- 1,2-Bis(dimethylphosphino)benzene, a more rigid analogue of dmpe.
- Tetramethylethylenediamine, the diamine analogue of dmpe.