Synthesis of a new camphor derived P,S(O) ligand. The importance of C–H⋯O bonding in the ligand exchange reactions with Co2(μ-alkyne)(CO)6 complexes

Herein we describe the synthesis and structure of a new chiral bidentate P,S(O) ligand containing a stereogenic sulfur atom. We also report on its coordination properties to acetylene dicobalt hexacarbonyl complexes, providing X-ray structures of the ligand alone and of a ligand–cobalt complex. Solid state structure of complex 4 shows the formation of a weak C–H⋯O bond between a polarised methine group in the ligand and a sulfone group on the alkyne that helps to stabilize the bridged coordination mode.