Synthesis and X-ray crystal structure determination of a useful PdII starting compound, enPd(NO3)2

Dinitrato(ethylenediamine)palladium(II) has been crystallized from aqueous solution following treatment of enPdCl2 with AgNO3. The en ligand is chelating and the two nitrate ligands bind monofunctionally. When brought in water, the nitrates are immediately replaced by water ligands, thus providing a convenient source of highly reactive [enPd(H2O)2]2+. 1H NMR spectra of the title compound in dimethylformamide and acetonitrile indicate proton exchange between NH2 groups of en ligands.