Synthesis and Structural Characterization of the First Copper(I) Complexes with Bis(imino)-N-heterocyclic Carbene NCN Pincer Ligands

A new class of bis(acyclic imino)-N-heterocyclic carbene (NCN pincer) ligand precursors was synthesized and structurally characterized. In situ deprotonation using a basic metal precursor resulted in the corresponding copper(I) complexes in good yields. Monometallic and bimetallic structures were observed in the solid state depending on the ligand substitution pattern.