Formation of a new class of 7π radicals via sterically induced P–P bond cleavage of the dimers [(CH)2(NR)2P]2

The 2c-2e- P-P bonded dimers [(CH)2(NR)2P]2 dissociate in solution to give the persistent new 7pi radicals [(CH)2(NR)2P]*, which are isoelectronic with the well known S/N thiazolyl radicals.