Direct spectroscopic characterization of a transitory dirhodium donor-acceptor carbene complex.

A multitude of organic transformations catalyzed by dirhodium(II) (Rh2) complexes are thought to proceed via the intermediacy of highly reactive, electrophilic carbenoid intermediates that have eluded direct observation. Herein, we report the generation of a metastable Rh2-carbenoid intermediate supported by a donor-acceptor carbene fragment. This intermediate is stable for a period of ~20 hours in chloroform solution at 0°C, allowing for an exploration of its physical and chemical properties.