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A base-stabilized germavinylidene

Author

Listed:
  • Bin Li

    (Hunan Normal University)

  • Jiancheng Li

    (Southern University of Science and Technology)

  • Yanling Zhu

    (Hunan Normal University)

  • Jicheng Wang

    (Hunan Normal University)

  • Yuanyuan Wang

    (Hunan Normal University)

  • Manbo Zhang

    (Hunan Normal University)

  • Liu Leo Liu

    (Southern University of Science and Technology)

Abstract

Germavinylidenes (R2C=Ge), the heavier congeners of vinylidenes, have long remained elusive, both as free species and in Lewis base-stabilized forms. Herein, we report the isolation of a base-stabilized germavinylidene employing an imine-functionalized cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (imino-CAAC) ligand. Comprehensive structural characterization, supported by theoretical calculations, confirms the presence of a Ge=C double bond, with the divalent germanium center coordinated by the imine donor. Preliminary reactivity studies reveal a rich chemical profile: the complex undergoes selective methylation at the germanium center, forms a π-dominated coordination complex with iron carbonyl, and acts as a germanium atom transfer reagent to generate a rare tetraazagermylene. Furthermore, a [2 + 2] cycloaddition with isocyanate provides compelling evidence for the Ge=C double bond character. These results underscore the previously unexplored potential of imino-CAAC ligands in stabilizing reactive and uncharted p-block main group species.

Suggested Citation

  • Bin Li & Jiancheng Li & Yanling Zhu & Jicheng Wang & Yuanyuan Wang & Manbo Zhang & Liu Leo Liu, 2025. "A base-stabilized germavinylidene," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-65001-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65001-w
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