Identification of the U(V) complex (CMe)UI(NSiMe) in the reaction of (CMe)UI(THF) with NSiMe.

The U(V) imido complex (CMe)UI(NSiMe), 1, was crystallographically characterized from the reaction of (CMe)UI(THF) with NSiMe which demonstrates that it can be an intermediate in the reaction which ultimately forms (CMe)U(NSiMe) and (CMe)UI. U(V) intermediates have been proposed in such reactions, but have not been previously observed. The direct observation of 1 provides insight into the reaction mechanisms of U(III) compounds with azide reagents.