From Prediction to Realization: Synthesis and X-Ray Characterization of 15- and 16-Vertex closo-Carboranes

Abstract

In order to solve the problem of the synthesis and structural characterization of 15- and 16-vertex closo-carboranes, Xie et al. introduce the method of using silyl groups to both cage carbons, stabilizing the corresponding nido-carborane dianions and promoting the capitation reaction with HBBr₂·SMe₂. This work demonstrates the exist of carboranes with more than 14 vertices and may open the door for further studying supercarborane chemistry.

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