Synthesis and X-ray Crystal Structures of (C5HiPr4)Ln(BH4)2(THF)(Ln = Nd and Sm), Versatile Precursors for Polymerization Catalysts

The new half metallocenes [(C5HiPr4)Ln(BH4)2(THF)] [Ln = Sm (1) and Nd (2)], and [(C5HiPr4)U(BH4)3] (3) have been synthesized. The crystal structures of 1 and 2 and of the metallocenes [(C5HiPr4)2Ln(BH4)] [Ln = Sm (4) and Nd (5)] have been determined. The substitution of the BH4 groups of 1 and 2 by a nitrogen-based ligand is possible. In the presence of butyllithium, these complexes show an activity in isoprene and styrene polymerization.