Synthesis and characterization of [Cp*Ru(C8H7)] an useful intermediate forthe construction of homo and hetero polinuclear oligomers of ruthenium.

The synthesis of the complex Cp*Ru(C8H7) is reported. The new complex is ob tained in good yield through the reaction of the tetramer [Cp*RuCl](4) with the monoanion salt of hidropentalene. The complex is indefinitely stable u nder an inert atmosphere. The characterisation was carried out by NMR techn iques. The H-1-NMR spectrum of the complex shows a large range coupling, in dicative of a strong electronic interaction in the system. Computational ca lculations carried out at semiempirical level show that the frontiers orbit als (HOMO and LUMO) are centred on the ruthenium and pentalene giving a the oretical support of the interaction observed in the system. The cyclic volt ametry shows only one irreversible oxidation process at 0.840 V.