Influence of HMPA on reducing power and reactivity of SmBr2

[GRAPHICS] Addition of HMPA to SmBr2 in THF produces a reactant with an estimated redox potential of -2.63 +/- 0.01 V (vs AS/AgNO3), This powerful reductant is capable of reducing ketimines and alkyl chlorides at room temperature. Although the structure of the reductant has not been established, it is nonetheless a powerful addition to the arsenal of samarium based reductants currently utilized.