Synthesis of O,N,O-P-multidentate ligands and their heterobimetallic complexes

Multidentate ligands that are comprised of an O,N,O-tridentate coordinating moiety and a phosphine group were synthesized. Some heterobimetallic complexes of these ligands were prepared by a simple method, i.e., first by mixing the ligand and one metal source, then adding another metal source. The O,N,O-moiety selectively coordinated to oxophilic metals such as aluminum, titanium and niobium, while the P moiety, softer Lewis base, selectively captured late transition metals such as palladium and rhodium. Initial attempts were made on a few catalytic reactions with the heterobimetallic complexes.