Activation of molecular nitrogen: Coordination, cleavage and functionalization of N-2 mediated by metal complexes

Recent developments in the activation and reactivity of coordinated dinitrogen are reviewed. Examples of weakly activated dinitrogen metal complexes, strongly reduced nitrogen-nitrogen bonds and N-2 cleavage reactions are discussed. Protonation reactions to form ammonia or hydrazido derivatives are covered along with processes in which nitrogen-boron, nitrogen-silicon or nitrogen-carbon bonds can form. Although this review builds on previous publications, a general introduction to this field is included.1 Introduction1.1 Background1.2 Coordination Chemistry of Dinitrogen2 Dinitrogen Activation3 Dinitrogen Cleavage4 Reactivity of Coordinated Dinitrogen4.1 Formation of N-H Bonds From Coordinated Dinitrogen4.2 Formation of N-Element Bonds From Coordinated Dinitrogen5 Final Thoughts.