Low-coordinate phosphorus(III) compounds have recently re-gained noticeable interest as the very peculiar stereoelectronic and coordination properties of such λ3σ2-species differ significantly from classical trivalent λ3σ3-phosphanes. These special characteristics can lead to interesting effects in more applied research fields, such as homogeneous catalysis and material science.

This lecture will focus on the design and preparation of novel, functionalized phosphinines, the higher homologs of pyridines. Special emphasis will be paid to the modification of their electronic properties, their coordination chemistry and reactivity. A novel route towards terminal cyaphido-complexes LnM-C≡P will also be highlighted.