A Catalytically Active, Charge-Neutral Rh(I) Zwitterion Featuring a P,N-Substituted “Naked” Indenide Ligand

The synthesis and characterization of a new class of cationic and zwitterionic Rh(I) complexes, which feature multidentate ligands comprised of donor-functionalized indene or indenide units, are reported. This unusual new ligation strategy provides access to the first charge-neutral [κ2-P,N]Rh(I) zwitterion, a complex that functions as a catalyst for the C−H/Si−H dehydrogenative coupling of styrene and triethylsilane.