An unprecedented, reversible coordination mode rearrangement: η³(B-H) vs. η¹(Sn) stanna-closo-dodecaborate coordination

The synthesis of the ruthenium stanna-closo-dodecaborate complex by an unprecedented, reversible η³(B-H) to η¹(Sn) rearrangement of (Bu₃MeN)₂[Ru(dppb)SnB₁₁H ₁₁)₂] is described. The product is characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The η¹(Sn) to η³(B-H) reaction can be compared with S-P rearrangements in the coordination chemistry of heterocycles. It is concluded that stanna-closo-dodecaborate is a versatile ligand in coordination chemistry and the first example of a reversible η³ (B-H) to η¹(E) (E:heteroatom) rearrangement is established.