Dinuclear Mn(I) Complexes with Phosphido and Hydrido Bridges: Synthesis, Reactivity, and Hydrogenative Catalysis

A class of organomanganese hydrogenation catalysts was recently rediscovered. These are simple dinuclear Mn(I) carbonyl compounds with phosphido (PR₂⁻) and hydrido (H⁻) bridges. This class of compounds has been known since the 1960’s, and they have rich coordination chemistry and reactivity. Given their recently discovered potential for catalytic applications, a fresh look at this class of compounds was necessary. Hence, this Review comprehensively covers the synthesis, reactivity, and catalysis of this interesting class of molecules.