Synthesis and characterization of a cationic ruthenium complex featuring an unusual bis(η2-BH) monoborane ligand

The reaction of Cp(star)Ru(P(i)Pr(3))Cl with MesBH(2) (Mes = 2,4,6-trimethylphenyl), followed by chloride abstraction with LiB(C(6)F(5))(4) center dot 2.5OEt(2) (LiBF(20)), afforded the crystallographically characterized complex [Cp(star)Ru(P(i)Pr(3))(BH(2)Mes)](+)B(C(6)F(5))(4)(-); notably, this represents the first reported cationic complex to feature an eta(2)-BH monoborane ligand, as well as a rare example of bis(eta(2)-BH) ligation.