Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity of a d², Mo(IV) Complex Supported by a New OCO−Trianionic Pincer Ligand

The new terphenyl pincer precursor 3,3‘ ‘-di-tert-butyl-1,1‘:3‘,1‘ ‘-terphenyl-2,2‘ ‘-diol (1) is examined for its ability to support early transition metals as a trianionic ligand. Metalation proceeds smoothly at −35 °C with Mo(NMe2)4 to provide the Mo(IV), d2 amido−amine complex [3,3‘ ‘-di-tert-butyl-2,2‘ ‘-di(hydroxy-κO)-1,1‘:3‘,1‘ ‘-terphenyl-2‘-yl-κC2‘](N-methylmethanaminato)bis(N-methylmethanamine)molybdenum(IV), abbreviated as [tBuOCO]Mo(NMe2)(NHMe2)2, (2).