Search

A variety of structural types of transition metal complexes containing σ-borane ligands are reviewed. Their structure and bonding are discussed. Compared with other types of σ-complexes, σ-borane complexes display quite different structural and bonding properties because of the electron unsaturated boron center in the σ-borane ligands in the precoordination state. The availability of an sp3-hybridized orbital at the boron center allows stronger back-donation interaction without breaking the coordinated B-H bond. The role played by σ-borane complexes in hydroboration and borylation reactions has also been reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]