Matrix isolation and transit photochemistry of Ru(dmpe)2H2: characterizationand reactivity of Ru(dmpe)2 (dmpe = Me2PCH2CH2PMe2)

The photolysis of the ruthenium(II) complex with bisdimethylphosphinoethane, Ru(dmpe)2H2, in low-temperature matrix and in solution generates the Ru(dmpe)2 species. When dihydrogen is present in the matrix or in the absence of other ligands in solution, selective irradiation regenerates Ru(dmpe)2H2. The reactions of Ru(dmpe)2 with H2 or CO shows that it exists as a singlet. Ru(dmpe)2 is also very reactive with a number of ligands, the presence of which shifts the photoreaction equilibrium. The chemical behavior and spectra of Ru(dmpe)2 differ from those of Fe(dmpe)2 but are closer to those of Ru(CO)2(PMe3)2.