Iridium(I) complexes containing bidentate pyrazolylgallate ligands. X-ray crystal structures of [Me2Gapz2]Ir(COD), [Ir(μ-pz)(CO)2]2, and [Ir(μ-3,5-Me2pz)(CO)2]2

The synthesis and characterization of a number of Ir(I) complexes incorporating bidentate, chelating, pyrazolylgallate ligands are described. Non-rigidity for some of the complexes in solution has been demonstrated by variable temperature 1H nmr studies. Crystal structures of three complexes, [Me2Gapz2]Ir(COD), [Ir(μ-pz)(CO)2]2, and [Ir(μ-3,5-Me2pz)(CO)2]2 are reported and confirm the expected boat conformations for the six-membered M—(N—N)2—Ir rings (where M = Ir or Ga) in the compounds. One of the complexes studied has exhibited measurable activity as a catalyst in the hydrogenation reaction of cyclohexene.