A persistent germylyne radical enabling reversible σ-dimerization and diverse bond activation

Nature Communications, Published online: 28 May 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-73357-w The reversible σ-dimerization of radicals is a fundamental process in bond formation and cleavage, yet is challenging to achieve with an isolable heavy carbyne analog. Herein, the authors report the synthesis and characterization of an isolable germylyne radical that demonstrates ambient stability while undergoing reversible σ-dimerization via a Ge–Ge single bond.