Synthesis and crystal structure of [H2B(3-Phpz)2]2Zn

Our attempts to synthesize [H2B(3-Phpz)2]Zn(acetate) from K[H2B(3-Phpz)2] and anhydrous zinc acetate has instead resulted in the formation of the 2:1 complex, [H2B(3-Phpz)2]2Zn. This derivative was isolated and crystallized from THF at −10°C. Its structure has been defined as a distorted tetrahedron with an average Zn–N bond distance of 2.011(1) Å as revealed by X-ray crystallography. As anticipated, this complex is inactive at catalyzing the coupling of cyclohexene oxide and carbon dioxide.