Advances in the catalytic and photocatalytic behavior of carborane derived metal complexes

Boron clusters whose geometrical shape is that of an icosahedron in combination with a transition metal have been used as homogeneous phase catalysts for significant reactions of practical interest. Key features include the formation of BMH or BHM bonds, their arrangement at the periphery of the cluster or with the metal forming part of the cluster, their interaction with light without photoluminescence losses, their great capacity for SET reactions, a fantastic catalyst-substrate ratio and water as a solvent.