Activation of C–H and H–H bonds by dinuclear iridium complexes. Oxidative addition to highly active unsaturated 32e− diiridium species

Highly active unsaturated 32e− diiridium species were generated by the deprotonation of dihydrido-bridged diiridium complexes. Oxidative addition of C–H bond in aromatic molecules and H–H bonds of hydrogen to such active species occurred under ambient conditions. Mechanistic aspects of the activation reactions are also demonstrated.