Coordination complexes of Ph₃Sb²⁺ and Ph₃Bi²⁺: beyond pnictonium cations.

The syntheses of salts containing ligand-stabilized Ph3Sb(2+) and Ph3Bi(2+) dications have been realized by in situ formation of Ph3Pn(OTf)2 (Pn=Sb or Bi) and subsequent reaction with OPPh3, dmap and bipy. The solid-state structures demonstrate diversity imposed by the steric demands and nature of the ligands. The synthetic method has the potential for broad application enabling widespread development of the coordination chemistry for Pn(V) acceptors.