Synthesis of neutral and cationic NHC-Au complexes as nanoparticle precursors

The synthesis of organometallic gold complexes with symmetric N-heterocyclic carbene ligand (NHC) derivatives derived from 2-(methylthio)aniline is reported. These complexes were obtained as either molecular monocarbene or cationic biscarbene complex. These compounds were tested as gold nanoparticle precursors that were stabilized by the corresponding NHC ligand. [Display omitted] The synthesis of organometallic gold complexes with symmetric N-heterocyclic carbene ligand (NHC) derivatives derived from 2-(methylthio)aniline is reported. These complexes were obtained as either molecular monocarbene complexes [Au(NHC)Cl], [Au(NHC)Cl3], and [Au(NHC)Br3]) or cationic biscarbene complex [Au(NHC)2]PF6. These compounds were tested as gold nanoparticle precursors that were stabilized by the corresponding NHC ligand.