In sharp contrast with the general behavior of Pd0 complexes, [Pd(IPr)(PCy3)] is able to activate the H-H bond. The resulting trans-[Pd(H)2(IPr)(PCy3)] is the first isolated mononuclear dihydride palladium compound. Its formation is supported by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, density functional calculations, and X-ray diffraction studies. The stability and reactivity of this new species are examined.
![Activation of hydrogen by palladium(0): Formation of the mononuclear dihydride complex trans-[Pd(H)2(IPr)(PCy3)]](https://www.iciq.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Activation-of-hydrogen_5182.gif)