Synthesis, structure, and properties of the hexagermane Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3

Abstract

The synthesis of the hexagermane Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3 was achieved starting from the cyclotetragermane (Ph2Ge)4. Ring-opening of (Ph2Ge)4 with Br2 yielded Br(GePh2)4Br that was converted to H(GePh2)4H, and this material was treated with two equiv. of Pri3GeNMe2 to furnish Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3 via the hydrogermolysis reaction. The X-ray crystal structures of (Ph2Ge)4, Br(GePh2)4Br and Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3 were determined. The hexagermane Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3 represents the longest structurally characterized linear oligogermane reported to date and exhibits physical properties that resemble those of the larger polygermane systems. The hexagermane is luminescent and interacts with polarized light, appearing pale yellow under one orientation of polarized light and deep blue under the opposite orientation. The electrochemistry of Pri3Ge(GePh2)4GePri3 was also explored, and this species exhibits the expected five irreversible oxidation waves.