Design and synthesis of dinuclear cobalt(ii) complexes derived from strong π-acidic ligands: crystal structure and studies on the oxidation of sp3 C–H bonds

Cobalt complexes (1 and 2) supported by strong π-acidic ligands were synthesized and characterized. These complexes were employed as catalysts for the oxidation of sp 3 C–H bonds. Mechanistic pathways are proposed on the basis of experimental evidence.