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Addition of HMPA to SmBr2 in THF produces a reactant with an estimated redo
x potential of -2.63 +/- 0.01 V (vs AS/AgNO3), This powerful reductant is c
apable of reducing ketimines and alkyl chlorides at room temperature. Altho
ugh the structure of the reductant has not been established, it is nonethel
ess a powerful addition to the arsenal of samarium based reductants current
ly utilized.