IrClCOPPh32

IrClCOPPh32, more commonly written IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2, is a neutral iridium(I) coordination complex. Its ligands consist of one chloride, one carbonyl (CO) and two triphenylphosphine (PPh3) ligands, giving an overall formula IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2. The complex is tetracoordinate and typically described as having a square-planar arrangement around the Ir(I) center.

The oxidation state of iridium in this complex is +1. With one anionic ligand (Cl−) and two neutral ligands (CO and PPh3), the Ir(I) center satisfies charge balance. The d8 metal center often adopts a diamagnetic, low-spin configuration in solution, and the geometry around Ir is characteristic of four-coordinate carbonyl/phosphine complexes.

Synthesis and properties: IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2 is typically prepared by ligand substitution of related iridium(I) carbonyl–halide precursors with phosphine ligands, usually under inert atmosphere. It is commonly soluble in nonpolar organic solvents such as dichloromethane or toluene and is generally handled under air-free conditions. The CO ligand makes the complex a useful model system for studying carbonyl and phosphine ligand interactions in iridium chemistry.

Applications: This complex serves as a versatile starting material and reference compound in homogeneous catalysis and organometallic chemistry. It is used to explore the effects of phosphine ligands on carbonyl binding, to prepare related Ir(I) carbonyl complexes, and to study fundamental reaction pathways such as ligand substitution and migratory processes. It also functions as a convenient laboratory standard for spectroscopic and reactivity comparisons across iridium carbonyl chemistry.

Safety: Like many organometallic iridium compounds, IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2 should be handled with appropriate safety precautions, including use of a fume hood, gloves, and eye protection. It may be moisture- and air-sensitive, requiring inert-atmosphere techniques.