A complex featuring an Au(0)–Au(0) σ-bond is stabilized by tridentate P–Mg–P ligands, with the σ-bond serving as a two-electron donor to the Mg centers and enabling two-electron reductions of various substrates. This work highlights the significance of ligand design for stabilizing low-valent Au center and provides new cases to explore the properties of dinuclear Au(0) complexes.

Abstract

Despite significant advances in gold chemistry, the synthesis and stabilization of gold centers in a low oxidation state, particularly dinuclear Au(0) species, remain a considerable challenge. In this work, we report the successful isolation of a novel dinuclear Au(0) complex stabilized by tridentate P–Mg–P ligands. Computational studies demonstrate that the Au(0)–Au(0) σ-bond acts as a two-electron donor to the Mg centers. Reactivity studies further revealed the complex's unprecedented ability to perform two-electron reductions on a range of substrates, akin to the behavior of well-established Mg(I) and Zn(I) dimers.