Activation of small molecules by a quintuply bonded alpha-diimine chromium dimer

This dissertation describes research on a quintuply bonded chromium dimer with alpha-diimine ligand and other chromium complexes with non-innocent diimine ligands. The goal of this research is to explore the fundamental organometallic chemistry of Cr-Cr quintuple bonds. Chapter 1 describes the study of the stability of the quintuply bonded chromium dimer. The second chapter discusses its alkyne chemistry. Chapter 3 addresses various questions regarding the mechanism of selective ethylene trimerization. Chapter 4 is organized into four parts addressing the different reactivities of the chromium dimer and its monomeric counterparts. They both can active various small molecules. The last chapter is divided into two parts, discussing the alpha-diimine ligands modification.