Peculiar transformation of a nonaromatic Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4) into an aromatic Na(2)Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4)

We analyzed the molecular orbitals for a Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4) compound, which is a model of the (AlBr x NEt(3))(4) crystal structure recently reported by Schn?ckel and co-workers. We found that even though Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4) contains a planar square Al(4) cluster it is not an aromatic compound. However, the addition of two sodium atoms to Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4) yields a new Na(2)Al(4)Cl(4)(NH(3))(4) compound which is a pi-aromatic molecule. We hope that prediction of this new compound will facilitate a synthesis of aluminum aromatic solids.     

DFT investigation of the tri(amino)amine N(NH(2))(3)(2+) and the tri(azido)amine N(N(3))(3)(2+) dications and related mixed amino(azido)ammonium ions (N(3))(x)N(NH(2))(4-x)(+) (x = 0-4)(1)

Structures of the tri(amino)amine N(NH(2))(3)(2+) and the tri(azido)amine N(N(3))(3)(2+) dications were calculated at the density functional theory (DFT) B3LYP/6-311+G level. The tri(amino)amine dication (NH(2))(3)N(2+) (1) was found to be highly resonance stabilized with a high kinetic barrier for deprotonation. The structures of diamino(azido)amine dication (NH(2))(2)N(N(3))(2+) (2), amino(diazido)amine dication (NH(2))N(N(3))(2)(2+) (3), and tri(azido)amine dication (N(3))(3)N(2+) (4) were also found to be highly resonance stabilized. The structures and energetics of the related mixed amino(azido)ammonium ions (N(3))(x)N(NH(2))(4-x)(+) (x = 0-4) were also calculated.     

Infrared and polarized Raman spectra of (CH3)2NH2Al(SO4)2 x 6H2O

FTIR and single crystal Raman spectra of (CH3)2NH2Al(SO4)2 x 6H2O have been recorded at 300 and 90 K and analysed. The shifting of nu1 mode to higher wavenumber and its appearance in Bg species contributing to the alpha(xz) and alpha(yz) polarizability tensor components indicate the distortion of SO4 tetrahedra. The presence of nu1 and nu2 modes in the IR spectrum and the lifting of degeneracies of nu2, nu3, and nu4 modes are attributed to the lowering of the symmetry of the SO4(2-) ion. Coincidence of the IR and Raman bands for different modes suggest that DMA+ ion is orientationally disordered. One of the H atoms of the NH2 group of the DMA+ ion forms moderate hydrogen bonds with the SO4(2-) anion. Al(H2O)6(3+) ion is also distorted in the crystal. The shifting of the stretching modes to lower wavenumbers and the bending mode to higher wavenumber suggest that H2O molecules form strong hydrogen bonds with SO4(2-) anion. The intensity enhancement and the narrowing of nu1SO4, deltaC2N and Al(H2O)6(3+) modes at 90 K confirm the settling down of the protons in the hydrogen bonds formed with H2O molecules and NH2 groups. This may be one of the reasons for the phase transition observed in the crystal.     

Kinetic and equilibria studies of the aquation of the trinuclear platinum phase II anticancer agent [(trans-PtCl(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-trans-Pt(NH(3))(2)(NH(2)(CH(2))(6)NH(2))(2))](4+) (BBR3464)

The hydrolysis profile of the bifunctional trinuclear phase II clinical agent [(trans-PtCl(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-trans-Pt(NH(3))(2)(NH(2)(CH(2))(6)NH(2))(2))](4+) (BBR3464, 1) has been examined using [(1)H,(15)N] heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) 2D NMR spectroscopy. Reported are estimates of the rate and equilibrium constants for the first and second aquation steps, together with the acid dissociation constant (pK(a1) approximately equal to pK(a2) approximately equal to pK(a3)). The equilibrium constants for the aquation determined by NMR at 298 and 310 K (I = 0.1 M, pH 5.3) are similar, pK(1) = pK(2) = 3.35 +/- 0.04 and 3.42 +/- 0.04, respectively. At lower ionic strength (I = 0.015 M, pH 5.3) the values at 288, 293, and 298 K are pK(1) = pK(2) = 3.63 +/- 0.05. This indicates that the equilibrium is not strongly ionic strength or temperature dependent. The aquation and anation rate constants for the two-step aquation model at 298 K in 0.1 M NaClO(4) (pH 5.3) are k(1) = (7.1 +/- 0.2) x 10(-5) s(-1), k(-1) = 0.158 +/- 0.013 M(-1) s(-1), k(2) = (7.1 +/- 1.5) x 10(-5) s(-1), and k(-2) = 0.16 +/- 0.05 M(-1) s(-1). The rate constants in both directions increase 2-fold with an increase in temperature of 5 K, and rate constants increase with a decrease in solution ionic strength. A pK(a) value of 5.62 plus minus 0.04 was determined for the diaqua species [(trans-Pt(NH(3))(2)(OH(2)))(2)(mu-trans-Pt(NH(3))(2)(NH(2)(CH(2))(6)-NH(2))(2))](6+) (3). The speciation profile of 1 under physiological conditions is explored and suggests that the dichloro form predominates. The aquation of 1 in 15 mM phosphate was also examined. No slowing of the initial aquation was observed, but reversible reaction between aquated species and phosphate does occur.     

First characterization of the ammine-ammonium complex [(NH4(NH3)4)2(mu-NH3)2]2+ in the crystal structure of [NH4(NH3)4][B(C6H5)4].NH3 and the [NH4(NH3)4]+ complex in [NH4(NH3)4][Ca(NH3)7]As3S6.2NH3 and [NH4(NH3)4][Ba(NH3)8]As3S6.NH3

The compound [NH4(NH3)4][B(C6H5)4].NH3 (1) was prepared by the reaction of NaB(C(6)H(5))(4) with a proton-charged ion-exchange resin in liquid ammonia. [NH(4)(NH(3))(4)][Ca(NH(3))(7)]As(3)S(6).2NH(3) (2) and [NH4(NH3)4][Ba(NH3)8]As3S6.NH3 (3) were synthesized by reduction of As(4)S(4) with Ca and Ba in liquid ammonia. All ammoniates were characterized by low-temperature single-crystal X-ray structure analysis. They were found to contain the ammine-ammonium complex with the maximal possible number of coordinating ammonia molecules, the [NH4(NH3)4]+ ion. 1 contains a special dimer, the [(NH4(NH3)4)2(mu-NH3)2]2+ ion, which is formed by two[NH4(NH3)4]+ ions linked by two ammonia molecules. The H(3)N-H...N hydrogen bonds in all three compounds range from 1.82 to 2.20 A (DHA = Donor-H...Acceptor angles: 156-178 degrees). In 2 and 3, additional H(2)N-H...S bonds to the thioanions are observed, ranging between 2.49 and 3.00 A (DHA angles: 120-175 degrees). Two parallel phenyl rings of the [B(C(6)H(5))(4)](-) anion in 1 form a pi...pi hydrogen bond (C...C distance, 3.38 A; DHA angles, 82 degrees), leading to a dimeric [B(C6H5)4]2(2-) ion.     

Structural models for yttrium aluminium borate laser glasses: NMR and EPR studies of the system (Y2O3)(0.2)-(Al2O3)x-(B2O3)(0.8-x)

The structure of laser glasses in the system (Y(2)O(3))(0.2){(Al(2)O(3))(x))(B(2)O(3))(0.8-x)} (0.15 ≤ x ≤ 0.40) has been investigated by means of (11)B, (27)Al, and (89)Y solid state NMR as well as electron spin echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) of Yb-doped samples. The latter technique has been applied for the first time to an aluminoborate glass system. (11)B magic-angle spinning (MAS)-NMR spectra reveal that, while the majority of the boron atoms are three-coordinated over the entire composition region, the fraction of three-coordinated boron atoms increases significantly with increasing x. Charge balance considerations as well as (11)B NMR lineshape analyses suggest that the dominant borate species are predominantly singly charged metaborate (BO(2/2)O(-)), doubly charged pyroborate (BO(1/2)(O(-))(2)), and (at x = 0.40) triply charged orthoborate groups. As x increases along this series, the average anionic charge per trigonal borate group increases from 1.38 to 2.91. (27)Al MAS-NMR spectra show that the alumina species are present in the coordination states four, five and six, and the fraction of four-coordinated Al increases markedly with increasing x. All of the Al coordination states are in intimate contact with both the three- and the four-coordinate boron species and vice versa, as indicated by (11)B/(27)Al rotational echo double resonance (REDOR) data. These results are consistent with the formation of a homogeneous, non-segregated glass structure. (89)Y solid state NMR spectra show a significant chemical shift trend, reflecting that the second coordination sphere becomes increasingly "aluminate-like" with increasing x. This conclusion is supported by electron spin echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) data of Yb-doped glasses, which indicate that both borate and aluminate species participate in the medium range structure of the rare-earth ions, consistent with a random spatial distribution of the glass components.     

(CH3)2NH(CH2)2NH(CH3)2][(UO2)2F2(HPO4)2]: a new organically templated layered uranium phosphate fluoride--synthesis, structure, characterization, and ion-exchange reactions

A new organically templated layered uranium phosphate fluoride, [(CH(3))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(3))(2)][(UO(2))(2)F(2)(HPO(4))(2)] has been synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of UO(3), H(3)PO(4), HF, and (CH(3))(2)NCH(2)CH(2)N(CH(3))(2) at 140 degrees C. [(CH(3))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(3))(2)][(UO(2))(2)F(2)(HPO(4))(2)] has a layered crystal structure consisting of seven-coordinated UO(5)F(2) pentagonal bipyramids and four-coordinated HPO(4) tetrahedra. Each anionic layer containing three-, four-, and six-membered rings is separated by [(CH(3))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(3))(2)](2+) cations. The [(CH(3))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(3))(2)](2+) cations may be readily exchanged with the M(2+) ions (M = Ba, Sr and Ca) in water to give high crystalline AE(UO(2))(2)(PO(4))(2).6H(2)O (AE = Ca, Sr, Ba).     

Vibrational analysis of Ag3(PO2NH)3, Na3(PO2NH)3 x H2O, Na3(PO2NH)3 x 4H2O,

FT IR and FT Raman spectra of Ag3(PO2NH), (Compound 1), Na3(PO2NH)3 x H2O (Compound II), Na3(PO2NH)3 x 4H2O (Compound III), [C(NH2)3]3(PO2NH)3 x H2O (Compound IV) and (NH4)4(PO2NH)4 x 4H2O (Compound V) are recorded and analyzed on the basis of the anions, cations and water molecules present in each of them. The PO2NH- anion ring in compound I is distorted due to the influence of Ag+ cation. Wide variation in the hydrogen bond lengths in compound III is indicated by the splitting of the v2 and v3 modes of vibration of water molecules. The NH4 ion in compound V occupies lower site symmetry and exhibits hindered rotation in the lattice. The correlations between the symmetric and asymmetric stretching vibrations of P-N-P bridge and the P-N-P bond angle have also been discussed.     

Zinc diphosphonates templated by organic amines: syntheses and characterizations of [NH3(CH2)2NH3]Zn(hedpH2)2*2H2O and [NH3(CH2)nNH3(CH2)nNH3]Zn2(hedpH)2*2H2O (n=4,5,6) (hedp=1-hydroxyethylidenediphophonate)

Four new zinc diphosphonate compounds with formulas [NH(3)(CH(2))(2)NH(3)]Zn(hedpH(2))(2).2H(2)O, 1, [NH(3)(CH(2))(n)()NH(3)]Zn(2)(hedpH)(2).2H(2)O, (n = 4, 2; n = 5, 3; n = 6, 4) (hedp = 1-hydroxyethylidenediphosphonate) have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions at 110 degrees C and in the presence of alkylenediamines NH(2)(CH(2))(n)()NH(2) (n = 2, 4, 5, 6). Crystallographic data for 1: monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 24.7422(15), b = 5.2889(2), c = 16.0338(2) A, beta = 117.903(1) degrees, V = 1856.17(18) A(3), Z = 4; 2: monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a = 5.4970(3), b = 12.1041(6), c = 16.2814(12) A, beta = 98.619(5) degrees, V = 1071.07(11) A(3), Z = 2; 3: monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a = 5.5251(2), b = 12.5968(3), c = 16.1705(5) A, beta = 99.182(1) degrees, V = 1111.02(6) A(3), Z = 2; 4: triclinic, space group P-1, a = 5.4785(2), b = 14.1940(5), c = 16.0682(6) A, alpha = 81.982(2) degrees, beta = 89.435(2) degrees, gamma = 79.679(2) degrees, V = 1217.11(8) A(3), Z = 2. In compound 1, two of the phosphonate oxygens are protonated. The metal ions are bridged by the hedpH(2)(2-) groups through three of the remaining four phosphonate oxygens, forming a one-dimensional infinite chain. The protonated ethylenediamines locate between the chains in the lattice. In compounds 2-4, only one phosphonate oxygen is protonated. Compounds 2 and 3 have a similar three-dimensional open-network structure composed of [Zn(2)(hedpH)(2)](n) double chains with strong hydrogen bonding interactions between them, thus generating channels along the [100] direction. The protonated diamines and water molecules reside in the channels. Compound 4 contains two types of [Zn(2)(hedpH)(2)](n) double chains which are held together by strong hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional network. The interlayer spaces are occupied by the [NH(3)(CH(2))(6)NH(3)](2+) cations and water molecules. The significant difference between structures 2-4 is also featured by the coordination geometries of the zinc atoms. The geometries of those in 2 can be described as distorted octahedral, and those in 3 as distorted square pyramidal. In 4, two independent zinc atoms are found, each with a distorted octahedral and a tetrahedral geometry, respectively.     

Solvation effects on angular distributions in H- (NH3)n and NH2(-) (NH3)n photodetachment: role of solute electronic structure

We report 355 and 532 nm photoelectron imaging results for H(-)(NH(3))(n) and NH(2)(-)(NH(3))(n), n = 0-5. The photoelectron spectra are consistent with the electrostatic picture of a charged solute (H(-) or NH(2)(-)) solvated by n ammonia molecules. For a given number of solvent molecules, the NH(2)(-) core anion is stabilized more strongly than H(-), yet the photoelectron angular distributions for solvated H(-) deviate more strongly from the unsolvated limit than those for solvated NH(2)(-). Hence, we conclude that solvation effects on photoelectron angular distributions are dependent on the electronic structure of the anion, i.e., the type of the initial orbital of the photodetached electron, rather than merely the strength of solvation interactions. We also find evidence of photofragmentation and autodetachment of NH(2)(-)(NH(3))(2-5), as well as autodetachment of H(-)(NH(3))(5), upon 532 nm excitation of these species.     

Experimental and theoretical studies of reactions of neutral vanadium and tantalum oxide clusters with NO and NH3

Reactions of neutral vanadium and tantalum oxide clusters with NO, NH(3), and an NO/NH(3) mixture in a fast flow reactor are investigated by time of flight mass spectrometry and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Single photon ionization through a 46.9 nm (26.5 eV) extreme ultraviolet (EUV) laser is employed to detect both neutral cluster distributions and reaction products. Association products VO(3)NO and V(2)O(5)NO are detected for V(m)O(n) clusters reacting with pure NO, and reaction products, TaO(3,4)(NO)(1,2), Ta(2)O(5)NO, Ta(2)O(6)(NO)(1-3), and Ta(3)O(8)(NO)(1,2) are generated for Ta(m)O(n) clusters reacting with NO. In both instances, oxygen-rich clusters are the active metal oxide species for the reaction M(m)O(n)+NO→M(m)O(n)(NO)(x). Both V(m)O(n) and Ta(m)O(n) cluster systems are very active with NH(3). The main products of the reactions with NH(3) result from the adsorption of one or two NH(3) molecules on the respective clusters. A gas mixture of NO:NH(3) (9:1) is also added into the fast flow reactor: the V(m)O(n) cluster system forms stable, observable clusters with only NH(3) and no V(m)O(n)(NO)(x)(NH(3))(y) species are detected; the Ta(m)O(n) cluster system forms stable, observable mixed clusters, Ta(m)O(n)(NO)(x)(NH(3))(y), as well as Ta(m)O(n)(NO)(x) and Ta(m)O(n)(NH(3))(y) individual clusters, under similar conditions. The mechanisms for the reactions of neutral V(m)O(n) and Ta(m)O(n) clusters with NO/NH(3) are explored via DFT calculations. Ta(m)O(n) clusters form stable complexes based on the coadsorption of NO and NH(3). V(m)O(n) clusters form weakly bound complexes following the reaction pathway toward end products N(2)+H(2)O without barrier. The calculations give an interpretation of the experimental data that is consistent with the condensed phase reactivity of V(m)O(n) catalyst and suggest the formation of intermediates in the catalytic chemistry.     

Further evidence for the tetraoxoiodate(V) anion,IO(4)(3-): hydrothermal syntheses and structures of Ba[(MoO(2))(6)(IO(4))(2)O(4)] x H(2)O and Ba(3)[(MoO(2))(2)(IO(6))(2)] x 2H(2)O

The hydrothermal reaction of MoO(3) with BaH(3)IO(6) at 180 degrees C for 3 days results in the formation of Ba[(MoO(2))(6)(IO(4))(2)O(4)] x H(2)O (1). Under similar conditions, the reaction of Ba(OH)(2) x 8H(2)O with MoO(3) and Ba(IO(4))(2) x 6H(2)O yields Ba(3)[(MoO(2))(2)(IO(6))(2)] x 2H(2)O (2). The structure of 1, determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, consists of corner- and edge-sharing distorted MoO(6) octahedra that create two-dimensional slabs. Contained within this molybdenum oxide framework are approximately C(2v) tetraoxoiodate(V) anions, IO(4)(3-), that are involved in bonding with five Mo(VI) centers. The two equatorial oxygen atoms of the IO(4)(3-) anion chelate a single Mo(VI) center, whereas the axial atoms are mu(3)-oxo groups and complete the octahedra of four MoO(6) units. The coordination of the tetraoxoiodate(V) anion to these five highly electropositive centers is probably responsible for stabilizing the substantial anionic charge of this anion. The Ba(2+) cations separate the layers from one another and form long ionic contacts with neighboring oxygen atoms and a water molecule. Compound 2 also contains distorted MoO(6) octahedra. However, these solely edge-share with octahedral hexaoxoiodate(VII), IO(6)(5-), anions to form zigzagging one-dimensional, (1)(infinity)[(MoO(2))(IO(6))](3-), chains that are polar. These chains are separated from one another by Ba(2+) cations that are coordinated by additional water molecules. Bond valence sums for the iodine atoms in 1 and 2 are 5.01 and 7.03, respectively. Crystallographic data: 1, monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 13.584(1) A, b = 7.3977(7) A, c = 20.736(2) A, beta = 108.244(2) degrees, Z = 4; 2, orthorhombic, space group Fdd2, a = 13.356(7) A, b = 45.54(2) A, c = 4.867(3) A, Z = 8.     

Synthesis, crystal structure, and solid-state NMR spectroscopy of a new open-framework aluminophosphate (NH(4))(2)Al(4)(PO(4))(4)(HPO(4))xH(2)O

A new three-dimensional open-framework aluminophosphate (NH(4))(2)Al(4)(PO(4))(4)(HPO(4)).H(2)O (denoted AlPO-CJ19) with an Al/P ratio of 4/5 has been synthesized, using pyridine as the solvent and 2-aminopyridine as the structure-directing agent, under solvothermal conditions. The structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and further characterized by solid-state NMR techniques. The alternation of the Al-centered polyhedra (including AlO(4), AlO(5), and AlO(6)) and the P-centered tetrahedra (including PO(4) and PO(3)OH) results in an interrupted open-framework structure with an eight-membered ring channel along the [100] direction. This is the first aluminophosphate containing three kinds of Al coordinations (AlO(4), AlO(5), and AlO(6)) with all oxygen vertexes connected to framework P atoms. (27)Al MAS NMR, (31)P MAS NMR, and (1)H --> (31)P CPMAS NMR characterizations show that the solid-state NMR techniques are an effective complement to XRD analysis for structure elucidation. Furthermore, all of the possible coordinations of Al and P in the aluminophosphates with an Al/P ratio of 4/5 are summarized. Crystal data: (NH(4))(2)Al(4)(PO(4))(4)(HPO(4))xH(2)O, monoclinic P2(1) (No. 4), a = 5.0568(3) A, b = 21.6211(18) A, c = 8.1724(4) A, beta = 91.361(4) degrees , V = 893.27(10) A(3), Z = 2, R(1) = 0.0456 (I > 2 sigma(I)), and wR(2) = 0.1051 (all data).     

The reaction of Li[Al(OR)4] R = OC(CF3)2Ph, OC(CF3)3 with NO/NO2 giving NO[Al(OR)4], Li[NO3] and N2O. The synthesis of NO[Al(OR)4] from Li[Al(OR)4] and NO[SbF6] in sulfur dioxide solution

NO[Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(4)] 1 and NO[Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)] 2 were obtained by the metathesis reaction of NO[SbF(6)] and the corresponding Li[Al(OR)(4)] salts in liquid sulfur dioxide solution in ca 40% (1) and 85% (2) isolated yield. 1 and 2, as well as Li[NO(3)] and N(2)O, were also given by the reaction of an excess of mixture of (90 mol%) NO, (10 mol%) NO(2) with Li[Al(OR)(4)] followed by extraction with SO(2). The unfavourable disproportionation reaction of 2NO(2)(g) to [NO](+)(g) and [NO(3)](-)(g)[DeltaH degrees = +616.2 kJ mol(-1)] is more than compensated by the disproportionation energy of 3NO(g) to N(2)O(g) and NO(2)(g)[DeltaH degrees =-155.4 kJ mol(-1)] and the lattice energy of Li[NO(3)](s)[U(POT)= 862 kJ mol(-1)]. Evidence is presented that the reaction proceeds via a complex of [Li](+) with NO, NO(2)(or their dimers) and N(2)O. NO(2) and Li[Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)] gave [NO(3)(NO)(3)][Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)](2), NO[Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)] and (NO(2))[Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)] products. The aluminium complex [Li[AlF(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(3)]](2) 3 was prepared by the thermal decomposition of Li[Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(4)]. Compounds 1 and 3 were characterized by single crystal X-ray structural analyses, 1-3 by elemental analyses, NMR, IR, Raman and mass spectra. Solid 1 contains [Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(4)](-) and [NO](+) weakly linked via donor acceptor interactions, while in the SO(2) solution there is an equilibrium between the associated [NO](+)[Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(4)](-) and separated solvated ions. Solid 2 contains essentially ionic [NO](+) and [Al(OC(CF(3))(3))(4)](-). Complex 3 consists of two [Li[AlF(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(3)]] units linked via fluorine lithium contacts. Compound 1 is unstable in the SO(2) solution and decomposes to yield [AlF(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(3)](-), [(PhC(CF(3))(2)O)(3)Al(mu-F)Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(3)](-) anions as well as (NO)C(6)H(4)C(CF(3))(2)OH, while compound 2 is stable in liquid SO(2). The [small nu](NO(+)) in 1 and [NO](+)(toluene)[SbCl(6)] are similar, implying similar basicities of [Al(OC(CF(3))(2)Ph)(4)](-) and toluene.     

Syntheses and Properties of New Layered Alkali-Metal/Ammonium Vanadium(V) Methylphosphonates: M(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) (M = NH(4), K, Rb, Tl). Single-Crystal Structures of K(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) and NH(4)(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2)

The hydrothermal syntheses of a family of new alkali-metal/ammonium vanadium(V) methylphosphonates, M(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) (M = K, NH(4), Rb, Tl), are described. The crystal structures of K(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) and NH(4)(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) have been determined from single-crystal X-ray data. Crystal data: K(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2), M(r) = 475.93, trigonal, R32 (No. 155), a = 7.139(3) ?, c = 19.109(5) ?, Z = 3; NH(4)(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2), M(r) = 454.87, trigonal, R32 (No. 155), a = 7.150(3) ?, c = 19.459(5) ?, Z = 3. These isostructural, noncentrosymmetric phases are built up from hexagonal tungsten oxide (HTO) like sheets of vertex-sharing VO(6) octahedra, capped on both sides of the V/O sheets by PCH(3) entities (as [PO(3)CH(3)](2-) methylphosphonate groups). In both phases, the vanadium octahedra display a distinctive two short + two intermediate + two long V-O bond distance distribution within the VO(6) unit. Interlayer potassium or ammonium cations provide charge balance for the anionic (VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) sheets. Powder X-ray, TGA, IR, and Raman data for these phases are reported and discussed. The structures of K(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) and NH(4)(VO(2))(3)(PO(3)CH(3))(2) are compared and contrasted with related layered phases based on the HTO motif.     

Supramolecular isomerism of 2,2'-bipyrazine complexes with cis-(NH(3))(2)Pt(II): ligand rotational state and sequential orientation determine the 3D shape of metallacycles

2,2'-Bipyrazine (2,2'-bpz) reacts with cis-(NH(3))(2)Pt(II) in water to give a variety of products, several of which were isolated and characterized by X-ray analysis: cis-[Pt(NH(3))(2)(2,2'-bpz-N4)(2)](NO(3))(2)·3H(2)O (1), [{cis-Pt(NH(3))(2)(2,2'-bpz-N4,N4')}(3)]-(PF(6))(5)NO(3)·7H(2)O (2a), [{cis-Pt(NH(3))(2)(2,2'-bpz-N4,N4')}(3)](BF(4))(2)-(SiF(6))(2)·15H(2)O (2b), and [{cis-Pt(NH(3))(2)(2,2'-bpz-N4,N4')}(4)]-(SO(4))(4)·22H(2)O (3). In 1, 2b, and 3 the 2,2'-bpz ligands adopt approximately C(2h) symmetries, hence the two pyrazine halves are in trans orientation, whereas in 2a all three 2,2'-bpz bridges are approximately C(2v) symmetric, with the pyrazine halves cis to each other. The topologies of the two triangular complexes 2a and 2b are consequently distinctly different, but nevertheless both cations act as hosts for anions. In 2a a PF(6)(-) and a NO(3)(-) anion are associated simultaneously with the +6 cation, whereas in 2b it is a BF(4)(-) anion and a water molecule, which are trapped in its cavity. There is no anion inclusion in case of the metallasquare 3. In principle, 3 can exist in a large number of stereoisomers, depending on the rotational states of the bridging 2,2'-bpz ligands. Isolation of a single rotamer form of 3 with C(2h) symmetric 2,2'-bpz ligands and an overall meso form is proposed to be a consequence of a highly efficient self-assembly process that starts from the precursor 1 and reaction with two cis-(NH(3))(2)Pt(II) units. This process leads to the isolated rotamer of 3 regardless of whether two cations 1 in head-head form react with two cis-(NH(3))(2)Pt(II), or whether the Δ enantiomer of the chiral head-tail form of 1 combines with its Λ enantiomer through two cis-(NH(3))(2)Pt(II) entities.     

Determination of the constants of affinity of FeCl3, CuCl2, and ZnCl2 for a nitrogen-containing organosilane bonded on Al2O3-cellulose acetate hybrid material surface from ethanol solution

This work describes the preparation and characterization of a cellulose acetate fiber coated with Al(2)O(3), resulting in the organic-inorganic hybrid Cel/Al(2)O(3). Furthermore, the hybrid was modified by attaching organofunctional groups by reaction with the precursor reagents (RO)(3)Si(CH(2))(3)L (L=NH(2), NH(CH(2))(2)NH(2), NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(2), and N(2)C(3)H(3) (imidazole)), resulting in Cel/Al(2)O(3)/Si(CH(2))(3)NH(2) (1), Cel/Al(2)O(3)/Si(CH(2))(3)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(2) (2), Cel/Al(2)O(3)/Si(CH(2))(3)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(CH(2))(2)NH(2) (3), and Cel/Al(2)O(3)/Si(CH(2))(3)N(2)C(3)H(3) (4). The amounts of attached organofunctional groups were (in mmol per gram of the material) 1=1.90, 2=1.89, 3=1.66, and 4=1.35. The isotherms of adsorption of FeCl(3), CuCl(2), and ZnCl(2) by Cel/Al(2)O(3)/Si(CH(2))(3)L from ethanol solutions were obtained at 298 K. Accurate estimates of the specific sorption capacities and the heteregeneous stability constants of the immobilized metal complexes were determined with the aid of several computational procedures. It is shown that the sorptional capacities are much less than the concentrations of the attached organofunctional groups. As all sorption isotherms are fitted properly with the Langmuir isotherm equation, the effects of the energetic heterogeneity and the lateral interactions do not affect the chemisorption equilibria. The heterogeneous stability constants of the immobilized complexes are fairly high, which provides efficient removal of the metal ions from solutions by the hybrid materials.     

Interplay between covalent and aurophilic interactions in a series of isostructural 3D Hoffman-like frameworks containing bipyrimidine and dicyanoaurate bridges. X-Ray structure and magnetic properties of {(mu-Au(CN)(2)](2)[(M(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-bpym)]}[Au(CN)(2)](2) (M = Ni(II), Co(II) and Cu(II))

The isomorphous coordination polymers {micro-Au(CN)(2)](2)[(M(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-bpym)]}[Au(CN)(2)](2) (M = Co(II) (1), Ni(II) (2), Cu(II) (3)) have been prepared from the reaction of 2 equiv. M(NO(3))(2) x nH(2)O (M = Cu(II), n = 3; M = Ni(II) and Co(II), n = 6) with 1 equiv. of bipyrimidine (bpym) in aqueous ammonia and then with an aqueous solution containing 1 equiv. of K[Au(CN)(2)]. The structures of these complexes are made of bpym bridged centrosymmetric dinuclear [M(NH(3))(2)(mu-bpym)M(NH(3))(2)] units connected by [Au(CN)(2)](-) anions to four other dinuclear units giving rise to a cationic 2D (4,4) rectangular grid network, its charge being balanced by two non-coordinated [Au(CN)(2)](-). The layers are stacked in such a way that the ammonia coordinated molecules are interdigitated and aligned above and below one sheet with cavities in neighbouring sheets, giving rise to an ABAB[dot dot dot] repeat pattern of layers. Gold atoms of bridging and non-bridging dicyanoaurate anions are involved in short aurophilic interactions (Au1-Au2 distances in the range 3.12-3.14 Angstrom), leading to a chain of gold atoms running along the a direction. Neighbouring gold chains are further connected by weaker aurophilic interactions (Au1-Au1 distances in the range 3.43-3.49 Angstrom), affording a honeycomb-like 2D network of gold atoms. The (4,4) rectangular sheets and (6,3) honeycomb sheets share the Au2 atoms, leading to a unique 3D network. Magnetic measurements clearly show the existence of antiferromagnetic exchange coupling between the metal ions with susceptibility maxima at 17 K (1), 22 K (2), and 17 K (3). The data of 1 were analyzed through a full Hamiltonian involving spin-orbit coupling, axial distortion, Zeeman interactions and magnetic exchange coupling between Co(II), and the best fit gives J = -9.23 cm(-1), kappa = 0.99, lambda = -142 cm(-1), Delta = -562 cm(-1). For 2 and 3, magnetic data were fitted to the theoretical equations derived from the isotropic Hamiltonian: H = -JS(1)S(2). The best fit parameters were g = 2.050(1), J = -17.51(1) and P = 0.01(2) for 2 and g = 2.068(5), J = -20.07(8) and P = 0.015(4) for 3, respectively (P takes into account the amount of paramagnetic impurity). In order to explain the weak magnetic interaction between copper(II) ions mediated by the bipyrimidine bridging ligand in 3, we have carried out electronic structure calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT).     

Uptake of NH(3) and NH(3) + HOBr reaction on ice surfaces at 190 K

The uptake of NH3 and the heterogeneous reaction of NH3 + HOBr --> products on ice surfaces at 190 K have been investigated in a flow reactor coupled with a differentially pumped quadrupole mass spectrometer. The uptake coefficient gammat for NH3 was determined to be (3.8 +/- 1.4) x 10(-4) on ice films at 189.8 K, for a partial pressure of NH3 in the range of 7.0 x 10(-7) to 3.8 x 10(-6) torr. The amount of NH3 uptake on the ice film was determined to be >2.9 x 10(15) molecules/cm(2), based on the total ice surface area at 189.2 K. The heterogeneous reaction of NH3 + HOBr on ice surfaces has been studied at 190 K. The reaction probability gammat was determined to be (5.3 +/- 2.2) x 10(-4) and was found to vary insignificantly as HOBr surface coverage changes from 2.1 x 10(13) to 2.1 x 10(14) molecules/cm(2). A reaction pathway is proposed on the basis of experimental observations.     

Synthesis and characterization of an Al(69)(3-) cluster with 51 naked Al atoms: analogies and differences to the previously characterized Al(77)(2-) cluster

A disproportionation process of a metastable AlCl solution with a simultaneous ligand exchange-Cl is substituted by N(SiMe(3))(2)-leads to a [Al(69)[N(SiMe(3))(2)](18)](3-) cluster compound that can be regarded as an intermediate on the way to bulk metal formation. The cluster was characterized by an X-ray crystal structural analysis. Regarding its structure and the packing within the crystal, this metalloid cluster with 4 times more Al atoms than ligands is compared to the [Al(77)N(SiMe(3))(2)](20)](2-) cluster that has been published four years ago. Although there is a similar packing density of the Al atoms in both clusters as well as in Al metal, the X-ray structural analysis shows significant differences in topology and distance proportions. The differences between these-at a first glance almost identical-Al clusters demonstrate that results of physical measuring, e.g., of nanostructured surfaces which carry supposedly identical cluster species, have to be interpreted with great caution.