title: Heterobimetallic s-block hydrides by σ-bond metathesis.
abstract: Reactions between PhSiH3 and alkali-metal diamidoalkylmagnesiates ([M{N(SiMe3)2}2MgBu], M = Li, Na, K) provide either selective alkyl metathesis or the formation of polyhydride aggregates contingent upon the identity of the Group 1 metal. In the case of [M{N(SiMe3)2}2MgBu], this reactivity results in a structurally unprecedented dodecametallic decahydride cluster species.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY (UK).
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Liptrot
authors.forename: Michael S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Hill
authors.forename: Mary F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Mahon
keywords: hydrides; magnesium; metathesis; potassium; sodium