Di[tris(trimethysilyl)methyl]-zinc and -cadmium

Tris(trimethylsilyl)methyllithium reacts with the anhydrous halides MC12 (M = Zn or Cd) to give the compounds [(Me3Si)3C]2M, which show high thermal and chemical stability. They decompose only above 300°C, with formation of (Me3Si)3CH, and are not attacked by water in refluxing THF. The zinc compound can be steam-distilled without decomposition, and does not react with boiling concentrated hydrochloric acid or with bromine in carbon tetrachloride. © 1980.