Synthesis, Structure, and Catalytic Activity of Palladium Complexes Bearing a Tridentate PXP-Pincer Ligand of Heavier Group 14 Element (X = Ge, Sn)

An efficient method for the synthesis of tridentate PGeP– and PSnP–palladium complexes is developed. Structural analysis revealed that PSiP-ligand exerts the strongest trans influence and electron donation and that PGeP- and PSnP-ligands provide wider coordination sphere around the palladium. Preliminary studies demonstrated that both PGeP– and PSnP–palladium complexes work as an efficient catalyst for reductive aldol-type reaction, indicating promising utility in synthetic organic chemistry.