xantphos
Xantphos is a bidentate diphosphine ligand with a rigid xanthene backbone, formally named 4,5-bis(diphenylphosphino)-9,9-dimethylxanthene. The two phosphine donors occupy the 4 and 5 positions on the xanthene framework, giving a notably wide bite angle when bound to a metal center. This structural feature distinguishes xantphos from many other ligands and influences catalytic geometry and reactivity.
The ligand’s large bite angle, combined with its rigid, bulky framework, stabilizes metal complexes and can
Synthesis of xantphos typically involves functionalization of the xanthene backbone to introduce two phosphine-bearing groups, commonly
Applications include promotion of hydroformylation and related hydrofunctionalization reactions using rhodium or related metals, where the