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ABSTRACT 
The Synthesis of Perfluoroalkylmono- and Diphosphines 
Makeba Blanche Murphy-Jolly 
Perfluoroalkylmono- and diphosphines are of interest as tunable 
alternatives to the carbon monoxide ligand. However, research into the 
possibilities inherent in these strong n-acceptor ligands has been stunted 
due to the lack of accessibility to them. In this report, we have attempted 
to address the lack of suitable methods for the synthesis of this interesting 
class of ligands. A convenient, general and high yield synthesis of 
tris(perfluoroalkyl)phosphines using relatively non-hazardous 
commercially available reagents has been developed. The method has 
also been extended to the synthesis of the (fluoroalkyl)diphosphines. 
Preliminary investigations into the complexation chemistry of these 
phosphines have resulted in the syntheses of new rhodium and iridium 
complexes. 
Keywords: Makeba Blanche Murphy-Jolly; Tris(perfluoroalkyl)phosphine; 
(Fluoroalkyl)diphosphine; Perfluoroalkylmono- and diphosphines.