Phosphorus as a Lewis Acid: CO2 Sequestration with Amidophosphoranes

Phosphorus as a Lewis Acid: CO2 Sequestration with Amidophosphoranes:

CO₂snapper: Compounds containing both acidic and basic P,N functionalities have been prepared. Of these, two amidophosphoranes containing highly reactive PN bonds within four-membered rings react rapidly with CO₂, resulting in relief of ring strain. These compounds demonstrate the utility of phosphorus as a Lewis acid for small-molecule activation.