Multiple bonds with silicon: Recent advances in synthesis, structure, and functions of stable disilenes

In the present chapter, the recent progress in the chemistry of disilenes (R₂Si=SiR₂) with functional groups in the last decade will be reviewed. Especially, novel synthetic routes to disilenes via functionalized disilenes and disilynes, as well as structures, properties, and selected new reactivity of disilenes, reported mainly in the last decade will be discussed. Fundamental structural and spectroscopic data of new disilenes reported after 2004 are tabulated at the end of the chapter.