Synthesis and characterisation of 3-aza-7-phosphabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan-9-ones

Novel 3-aza-7-phosphabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan-9-ones have been synthesised via the Mannich reaction of a phosphorinanone, a primary amine and formaldehyde. The new phosphorus–nitrogen (PN) compounds are rigid and adopt a twin-chair conformation both in solution and the solid states. The coordination properties of the PN compounds were explored and a stable platinum complex was synthesised in which the PN ligand was bonded through both donor atoms.