Transformation of Thiolatogold(I) to an Au Complex with an (Arylthio)silyl Ligand. Use of an (Aminosilyl)boronic Ester as a Silylene Precursor

The gold­(I) thiolate complex [Au­(SC6H4-4-OMe)­(PCy3)] reacts with an (aminosilyl)­boronic ester, Et2N-SiPh2-BO­(CMe2)2O, to afford a complex with an (arylthio)­silyl ligand, [Au­(SiPh2(SC6H4-4-OMe))­(PCy3)]. In the solid state the molecule shows almost linear Si–AuI–P coordination. DFT studies revealed that the reaction pathway involves an intermediate having an Au–S bond formed via initial association of the Si center of the substrate with the thiolate ligand. Reaction of H2SiPh2 with the thiolate complex also produces the silylgold complex in a lower yield.