Diiron propanedithiolate hexacarbonyl
# Diiron propanedithiolate hexacarbonyl

Diiron propanedithiolate hexacarbonyl is the organoiron complex with the formula $Fe_2(S_2C_3H_6)(CO)_6.$ It is a red diamagnetic solid. It adopts a symmetrical structure with six terminal CO ligands. The complex is a precursor to hydrogenase mimics.

It is prepared by the reaction of 1,3-propanedithiol with triiron dodecarbonyl:

    2 $Fe_3(CO)_{12}$ + 3 $C_3H_6(SH)_2$ → 3 $Fe_2(S_2C_3H_6)(CO)_6$ + 3 $H_2$ + 6 CO

In general, the CO ligands can be substituted by cyanide, phosphines, isocyanides, N-heterocyclic carbenes, and other donor ligands. Monosubstitution can be achieved through an in situ generation of the acetonitrile complex.

Upon irradiation of $Fe_2(S_2C_3H_6)(CO)_6$ with ultraviolet (UV) light, CO-photolysis occurs with the transient formation of the unsaturated species followed by the formation of the solvent adduct.

