Metalloid Cluster Compounds of Group 14: Bonding Properties and Subsequent Reactions

Abstract

Metalloid cluster compounds of group 14 of the general formulae E_nR_m with n > m (E = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb; R = ligand), where naked as well as ligand bound tetrel atoms are present, represent a novel class of cluster compounds in group 14 chemistry and can be seen as intermediates on the way to the elemental state. Therefore, interesting properties are expected for these compounds, which might complement results from nanotechnology. In this article, first results for germanium are discussed, together with novel build-up reactions on the way to novel materials based on metalloid cluster compounds.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT     

Ge8R6: the ligands define the bonding situation within the cluster core

The disproportionation reaction of Ge(i) halides open up a way to cluster compounds with an average oxidation state of the germanium atoms inside the cluster core in between 0 and 1. Simultaneously compounds with germanium in an oxidation state greater than i are formed. During the reaction of Ge(i) bromide with one equivalent of LiR (R = 2,6-(tBuO)(2)C(6)H(3)) the cluster compound Ge(8)R(6) and the molecular Ge(iv) compound R(3)GeBr were isolated, representing the reduction and the oxidation product of the disproportionation reaction, respectively. The molecular structure of the Ge(8) cluster compound shows a highly different arrangement of the eight germanium atoms in the cluster core with respect to the only other Ge(8)R(6) cluster compound where amido ligands are bound to the germanium atoms. Quantum-chemical calculations reveal that the distinct arrangement of the germanium atoms can be traced back to a different bonding situation inside the cluster frameworks, which is induced by the different ligands attached to the germanium atoms. These experimental and theoretical results show that the ligands are not only necessary for protecting the cluster core against the exterior but also have a strong influence on the bonding situation and therefore on the electronic situation inside the cluster core. Hence, the ligand influences the electronic properties and consequently the physical properties which is now seen, for the first time, in metalloid germanium cluster compounds.     

Si(SiMe(3))(3)](6)Ge(18)M (M = Cu, Ag, Au): metalloid cluster compounds as unusual building blocks for a supramolecular chemistry

Very recently it was shown that the metalloid cluster compound {Ge(9)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](3)}(-) can be used for subsequent reactions as the shielding of the cluster core is rather incomplete. Here further reactions of with M(+) sources of group 11 metals are described, leading to metalloid cluster compounds of the formula {MGe(18)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](6)}(-) (M = Ag, Cu). These reactions can be seen as first steps into a supramolecular chemistry with metalloid cluster compounds. Beside this feature, the structural properties as well as the bonding situations in these cluster compounds are discussed.     

Monitoring the dissolution process of metals in the gas phase: reactions of nanoscale Al and Ga metal atom clusters and their relationship to similar metalloid clusters

Formation and dissolution of metals are two of the oldest technical chemical processes. On the atomic scale, these processes are based on the formation and cleavage of metal-metal bonds. During the past 15 years we have studied intensively the intermediates during the formation process of metals, i.e. the formation of compounds containing many metal-metal bonds between naked metal atoms in the center and ligand-bearing metal atoms at the surface. We have called the clusters metalloid or, more generally, elementoid clusters. Via a retrosynthetic route, the many different Al and Ga metalloid clusters which have been structurally characterized allow us to understand also the dissolution process; i.e. the cleavage of metal-metal (M-M) bonds. However, this process can be detected much more directly by the reaction of single metal atom clusters in the gas phase under high vacuum conditions. A suitable tool to monitor the dissolution process of a metal cluster in the gas phase is FT-ICR (Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance) mass spectrometry. Snapshots during these cleavage processes are possible because only every 1-10 s is there a contact between a cluster molecule and an oxidizing molecule (e.g. Cl2). This period is long, i.e. the formation of the primary product (a smaller metal atom cluster) is finished before the next collision happens. We have studied three different types of reaction:(1) Step-by-step fragmentation of a structurally known metalloid cluster allows us to understand the bonding principle of these clusters because in every step only the weakest bond is broken.(2) There are three oxidation reactions of an Al13(-) cluster molecule with Cl2, HCl and O2 central to this review. These three reactions represent three different reaction types, (a) an exothermic reaction (Cl2), (b) an endothermic reaction (HCl), and (c) a kinetically limited reaction based on spin conservation rules (O2).(3) Finally, we present the reaction of a metalloid cluster with Cl2 in order to show that in this cluster only the central naked metal atoms are oxidized, and a smaller metalloid cluster results containing the entire protecting shell as the primary cluster.All the experimental results, supported by quantum chemical calculations, give a rough idea about the complex reaction cascades which occur during the dissolution and formation of metals. Furthermore, these results cast a critical light on many simplifying and generalizing rules in order to understand the bonding and structure of metal clusters. Finally, the experiments and some recent results provided by physical measurements on a crystalline Ga(84) compound build a bridge to nanoscience; i.e. they may be a challenge for chemistry in the next decades, since it has been shown that only with a perfect orientation of nanoscale metal clusters, e.g. in a crystal, can novel, unexpected properties (e.g. superconducting nanoscale materials) be obtained.     

Ge4Br4[Mn(CO)5]4 and Ge6Br2[Mn(CO)5]6: first germanium cluster compounds containing Mn(CO)5 ligands

Cluster compounds of germanium exhibiting germanium-germanium bonds, where the germanium atoms are additionally bound to transition metal ligands, are rare. Here a synthetic pathway to such cluster compounds is described, starting from metastable Ge I halide solutions leading to the two cluster compounds Ge4Br4[Mn(CO)5]4 and Ge6Br2[Mn(CO)5]6, being the first examples of germanium cluster compounds bearing Mn(CO)5 ligands. The Ge6 compound exhibits a novel arrangement of germanium atoms that has not been previously observed in ligand stabilized cluster compounds of germanium, neither with organic nor with transition metal ligands. The bonding situation inside the cluster compounds is discussed, together with a possible reaction pathway that opens the way to metalloid cluster compounds of germanium exhibiting Mn(CO)5 ligands.     

Metalloid aluminum and gallium clusters: element modifications on the molecular scale?

As members of the same group in the periodic table, the industrially significant elements aluminum and gallium exhibit strong similarities in the majority of their compounds. In contrast there are significant differences in the structures of the two elemental forms: Aluminum forms a typical closest-packed metallic structure whereas gallium demonstrates a diversity of molecular bonding principles in its seven structural modifications. It can therefore be expected that differences between Al and Ga compounds will arise when, as for the elemental forms, many metal-metal bonds are formed. To synthesize such cluster compounds, we have developed the following synthesis procedure: Starting from gaseous monohalides at around 1000 degrees C, metastable solutions are generated from which the elements ultimately precipitate by means of a disproportionation reaction at room temperature. On the way to the elemental forms, molecular Al and Ga cluster compounds can be obtained by selection of suitable ligands (protecting groups), in which a core of Al or Ga atoms are protected from the formation of the solid element by a ligand shell. Since the arrangement of atoms in such clusters corresponds to that in the elements, we have designated these clusters as metalloid or elementoid. In accordance with the Greek word [see text] (ideal, prototype), the atomic arrangement in metalloid clusters represents the prototypic or ideal atomic arrangement in the elements at the molecular level. The largest clusters of this type contain 77 Al or 84 Ga atoms and have diameters of up to two nanometers. They hold the world record with respect to the naked metal-atom core for structurally characterized metalloid clusters.     

Structure and bonding in cluster compounds of gold

Recently a number of high nuclearity gold cluster compounds of the type [Au(AuPR₃)_n]^x+ have been synthesised and structurally characterised using single crystal X-ray crystallographic measurements. The structures and properties of these compounds are contrasted with those of comparable high nuclearity metal carbonyl cluster compounds. In order to account for the structures of [Au(AuPR₃)_n]^x+ in the solid state and in solution it has proved necessary to develop a flexible bonding model which emphasises the topologies of the clusters rather than their detailed geometries. In this fashion the observed stereochemical non-rigidity of these compounds in solution is readily accounted for. In the solid state the structures of the higher nuclearity cluster cations can be derived either from the centred chair [Au(AuPR₃)₆], or the centred crown [Au(AuPR₃)₈] by adding edge or face capping AuPR₃ fragments. The bonding in heterometallic clusters containing the AuPR₃ fragment is also considered.     

{Sn(9)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](2)}(2-): A Metalloid Tin Cluster Compound With a Sn(9) Core of Oxidation State Zero

The disproportionation reaction of the subvalent metastable halide SnCl proved to be a powerful synthetic method for the synthesis of metalloid cluster compounds of tin. Now we present the synthesis and structural characterization of the anionic metalloid cluster compound [Sn(9)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](2)](2-)3 where the oxidation state of the tin atoms is zero. Quantum chemical calculations as well as M?ssbauer spectroscopic investigations show that three different kinds of tin atoms are present within the cluster core. Compound 3 is highly reactive as shown by NMR investigations, thus being a good starting material for further ongoing research on the reactivity of such partly shielded metalloid cluster compounds.     

六核钴原子簇化学 3: 一些含Co~6八面体簇骼的原子簇化合物的合成、结构和电化学性质

(R~8P)~4-nCoX~n(R=Ph,Et 等;X=C,B=1,2)与Na~E~x(E=S,Se;X=1,2)在DMF或DMF/乙醇介质中反应得到了一系列六核钴的原子簇化合物Co~6(μ~3-E)~8(PR~3)~6.这些化合物含有正规的或畸变的Co~6八面簇骼.化合物可以用I~2氧化生成正一价的簇合物而不改变簇骼的几何构型,反达来,正一价的簇合物也可以被苊烯钠还生成中性的簇合物.本文还研究了这些化合物的电化学性质并提出了氧化还原反应的电子传递过程.     

Catalysis using transition metal complexes featuring main group metal and metalloid compounds as supporting ligands

Recent development in catalytic application of transition metal complexes having an M–E bond (E = main group metal or metalloid element), which is stabilized by a multidentate ligand, is summarized. Main group metal and metalloid supporting ligands furnish unusual electronic and steric environments and molecular functions to transition metals, which are not easily available with standard organic supporting ligands such as phosphines and amines. These characteristics often realize remarkable catalytic activity, unique product selectivity, and new molecular transformations. This perspective demonstrates the promising utility of main group metal and metalloid compounds as a new class of supporting ligands for transition metal catalysts in synthetic chemistry.

Recent development in catalytic application of transition metal complexes having an M–E bond (E = main group metal or metalloid element), which is stabilized by a multidentate ligand, is summarized.     

Multiple bonding in heavier element compounds stabilized by bulky terphenyl ligands

This paper summarizes recent developments involving the preparation and reactivity of molecular species stabilized by terphenyl ligands that feature new bonding environments. Highlights include the synthesis and characterization of dimetallenes and dimetallynes, ArEEAr [E=heavy group 13 (triel) or group 14 (tetrel) element, Ar=terphenyl ligand] and, more recently, the synthesis of a stable chromium(I) dimer, ArCrCrAr, that displays a 5-fold bonding interaction between the chromium centers.     

Heats of hydrogenation of compounds featuring main group elements and with the potential for multiply bonding

Reaction enthalpies are calculated for the hydrogenation reactions of main group hydrides with the potential for multiple bonding, and thus the unsaturated character of these species is determined. In addition to the global minimum structures, which leave in some cases no hope for even a single E-E bond (E=Group 13, 14, or 15 element), calculations are also performed for geometries with maximum potential for multiple bonding. The trends down the groups and the periods are established. Interpretations have to take several factors into account. These factors sometimes work hand in hand but also against each other. We also include in our survey the species [HGaGaH]2- as a free anion and Na2[HGaGaH] as well as their hydrogenation products [H2GaGaH2]2- and Na2[H2GaGaH2]2-. The results show that the presence of the Na+ ions has a significant impact on their chemistry, and thus suggests that they are involved to a large extent in the bonding. Our results indicate that the compounds should be described as cluster compounds.     

The formal combination of three singlet biradicaloid entities to a singlet hexaradicaloid metalloid Ge14[Si(SiMe3)3]5[Li(THF)2]3 cluster

The reaction of GeBr with LiSi(SiMe(3))(3) leads to the metalloid cluster compound [(THF)(2)Li](3)Ge(14)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](5) (1). After the introduction of a first cluster of this type, in which 14 germanium atoms form an empty polyhedron, [(THF)(2)Li](3)Ge(14)[Ge(SiMe(3))(3)](5) (2), we present here further investigations on 1 to obtain preliminary insight into its chemical and bonding properties. The molecular structure of 1 is determined via X-ray crystal structure solution using synchrotron radiation. The electronic structure of the Ge(14) polyhedron is further examined by quantum chemical calculations, which indicate that three singlet biradicaloid entities formally combine to yield the singlet hexaradicaloid character of 1. Moreover, the initial reactions of 1 after elimination of the [Li(THF)(2)](+) groups by chelating ligands (e.g., TMEDA or 12-crown-4) are presented. Collision induced dissociation experiments in the gas phase, employing FT-ICR mass spectrometry, lead to the elimination of the singlet biradicaloid Ge(5)H(2)[Si(SiMe(3))(3)](2) cluster. The unique multiradicaloid bonding character of the metalloid cluster 1 might be used as a model for reactions and properties in the field of surface science and nanotechnology.     

From the Metal to the Molecule-Ternary Bismuth Subhalides

Subvalent compounds, that is, metal-rich substances in which the average oxidation state of the cation is smaller than would be expected from the (8-N) rule, have proved to be a rich source of unexpected structural and physical features. The extraordinary structural chemistry generally observed in subvalent compounds is a consequence of the low and often non-integer oxidation states of the metal atoms coupled with the low concentration of valence electrons. Both factors can lead to a wide-range of bonding types within the same compound. A characteristic of these compounds is the interplay between "metallic" regions, with delocalized electrons and mainly nonpolar bonds between the metal atoms, and "saltlike" regions, which are characterized by strong localization of the electrons and heteropolar exchange between the metal and nonmetal atoms. The volumes of the different structural regions as well as the extent to which they interpenetrate can vary from compound to compound. The ternary subhalides of bismuth belong to a new class of substances which cover the whole spectrum from partially oxidized "porous" metals, through one- and two-dimensional metals, up to semiconducting ionic or molecular cluster compounds. These subvalent compounds with their unusually high chemical stabilities provide excellent vehicles for further research and their potential is described in the following article.     

Two metalloid Ga22 clusters containing a novel Ga22 core with an icosahedral Ga12 center

In addition to the two so far known types of metalloid Ga(22) clusters a new type is presented in two compounds containing the anions [Ga(22)Br[N(SiMe(3))(2)](10)Br(10)](3-) (1) and [Ga(22)Br(2)[N(SiMe(3))(2)](10)Br(10)](2-) (2). In both anions 10 Ga atoms of the icosahedral Ga(12) core are directly connected to further Ga atoms. The two remaining Ga atoms (top and bottom) of the Ga(12) icosahedron are bonded to one (1) and two Br atoms (2), respectively. The formation and structure of both compounds containing a slightly different average oxidation number of the Ga atoms is discussed and compared especially with regard to the Ga(84) cluster compound and similar metalloid Al(n) clusters. Finally, the consequences arising from the presence of two very similar but not identical Ga(22) cluster compounds are discussed and special consideration is given to the so far not understood physical properties (metallic conductivity and superconductivity) of the Ga(84) cluster compound.     

Exploratory synthesis in the solid state. Endless wonders

This article gives an overview of recent developments in three areas of solid state chemistry: (1) The discovery that centered and originally-adventitious interstitial elements Z are essential for the stability of M6X12-type cluster halides of group 3 and 4 metals has led to a large amount of new chemistry through tuning structures and compositions of AnM6(Z)X12Xn phases with the variables Z, x, and n. The corresponding metal-rich group 3 tellurides exhibit novel and more extensive metal aggregation, reflecting a decreased number of anions and valence electrons. (2) Many intrinsically metallic T5M3 phases with a Mn5Si3-type structure are formed by early transition metals T with main-group elements M. Each characteristically reacts with diverse elements (up to 15-20 each) to form stuffed interstitial versions T5M3Z of the same structure. The ranges of Z and some properties are described. Related reactions of hydrogen (often as an impurity) in Mn5Si3-, beta-Yb5Sb3-, and Cr5B3-type systems are extensive. Substantially all previous reports of beta-Yb5Sb3- and Cr5B3-type phases for divalent metals with pnictogen (As-Bi) and tetrel (Si-Pb) elements, respectively, have been for the hydrides, and about two-thirds do not exist without that hydrogen (or fluorine). (3) The developing chemistry of anionic polymetal cluster compounds of the main-group elements with alkali-metal cations is outlined, particularly for the triel elements In and Tl. These clusters lie to the left of what has been called the Zintl boundary, many are new hypoelectronic polyhedra, some may be centered by the same or another neighboring element, and so far all have been isolated only as neat solid state compounds in which specificity of cation-anion interactions seems important. Extended networks are also encountered.     

DFT modeling of sandwich complexes involving cationic palladium chains and polyenic or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

DFT calculations are reported on a series of one-dimensional palladium complexes with general formula [Pd(m)(C(2n)H(2n+2))(2)](2+) (m = 2-4, n = 2-8, n > or = m), in order to model and analyze the bonding in the series of organometallic sandwich compounds recently reported by the group of T. Murahashi and H. Kurosawa. The bonding interactions are elucidated, and the frontier orbitals involved are described as a function of the haptotropic conformation of the metal atoms, either di-hapto or tri-hapto. In both cases, the driving force to the complex organization is a strong donation interaction from the pi system of the hydrocarbons to an orbital with appropriate phase and composition, delocalized over the metal chain, and depopulated by the double oxidation process. No net bonding interaction can be characterized along the metal string, and the metal-metal distances are mainly governed by the hapticities of adjacent atoms. The energy associated with the formation of a complex is calculated with respect to its fragments, assumed either isolated or solvated. The results emphasize the stabilizing role of a large delocalization of the positive charge transferred to the hydrocarbons. This delocalization extends to the hydrocarbon regions not directly in contact with palladium and highlights the importance of these "inactive" regions in complexes made from diphenyl polyenes or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Finally, the bonding pattern deduced from calculations has been utilized to consider the feasibility of novel sandwich architectures, whose computed energy balance eventually proves similar to that of already existing compounds.