Synthesis and structure of [{ButP)2H}K·pmdeta]2, containing an organo diphosphido ligand [pmdeta = (Me2NCH2CH2)2NMe]

Reduction of [ButP]4 with K metal (1:5 equiv.) followed by the addition of pmdeta and stoichiometric hydrolysis gives [{(ButP)2H}K·pmdeta]2, a unique complex containing a [ButP(H)PBut]– anion ligand homologous with a phosphido anion (R2P–).