New Examples for the Unexpected Stability of the 10π‐Electron Hückel Arene [Si6]10–

The compounds Ba₄Ag₂Si₆, Eu₄Ag₂Si₆, and Ca₄Ag₂Si₆, prepared from the elements at 1273 K (the components in inner corundum crucibles are enclosed in sealed quartz ampoules), are brittle semiconductors with silvery luster. They react slowly with acids liberating hydrogen. Ba₄Ag₂[Si₆] and Eu₄Ag₂[Si₆] crystallize like Ba₄Li₂[Si₆] (space group Fddd (No. 70); a = 8.613 Å, b = 14.927 Å, c = 19.639 Å, and a = 8.420 Å, b = 14.585 Å, c = 17.864 Å, respectively), whereas Ca₄Ag₂[Si₆] represents a new structure type (space group Fmmm (No. 69); a = 8.315 Å, b = 14.391 Å, c = 8.646 Å). The three compounds are Zintl phases with the formal charges M²⁺, Ag⁺ and [Si₆]^10–. The mean bond lengths d(Si–Si) = 2.335–2.381 Å in the 10π‐Hückel arene [Si₆]^10– as well as d(Ag–Si) = 2.464–2.595 Å vary with the size of the M²⁺ cations. The chemical bonding was analyzed in terms of the Electron Localization Function (ELF) and compared with the bonding in related systems (Ce₄Co₂Si₆).     

Selen‐Polykationen stabilisiert durch polymere Chlorobismutat‐Anionen: Synthesen und Kristallstrukturen von Se4[Bi4Cl14] und Se10[Bi5Cl17]

Selenium Polycations Stabilized by Polymeric Chlorobismuthate Anions: Syntheses and Crystal Structures of Se₄[Bi₄Cl₁₄] and Se₁₀[Bi₅Cl₁₇] Reactions of selenium with selenium(IV) chloride and bismuth(III) chloride in sealed evacuated glass ampoules at temperatures between 110 and 155 °C yield a series of compounds which are composed of discrete selenium polycations and polymeric chlorobismutate anions. Besides the already known Se₈[Bi₄Cl₁₄] two new compounds have been identified by crystal structure analyses as Se₄[Bi₄Cl₁₄] (tetragonal, P4/n, a = 1089.1(2) pm, c = 993.7(2) pm, Z = 2) and Se₁₀[Bi₅Cl₁₇] (monoclinic, P2₁/c, a = 1079.24(8) pm, b = 2062.9(2) pm, c = 1676.1(2) pm, β = 90.87(1)°, Z = 4). Se₄[Bi₄Cl₁₄] was obtained as red transparent platelike crystals and is the first example of a compound with (chalcogen₄)²⁺ ions of exact square‐planar symmetry and molecular point group D_4h in the solid state. The cations are surrounded by layers of two‐dimensional polymeric anions [Bi₄Cl₁₄]^2–. Se₁₀[Bi₅Cl₁₇] forms dark grey crystals with a reddish luster. The structure contains the known bicyclic polycation Se₁₀²⁺ which is disordered over two positions and the first three‐dimensional polymeric chlorobismutate anion [Bi₅Cl₁₇]^2–. The different BiCl_x polyhedra are linked by sharing common vertices, edges, and faces.     

The Crystal Structures of Two No–Metal Tricyanomelaminates: Diammonium Tricyanomelaminate Dihydrate [NH4]2[C6N9H] · 2 H2O and Dimelaminium Tricyanomelaminate Melamine Dihydrate [C3N6H7]2[C6N9H] · C3N6H6 · 2 H2O

Diammonium tricyanomelaminate dihydrate [NH₄]₂[C₆N₉H] · 2 H₂O ( 1 ) and dimelaminium tricyanomelaminate melamine dihydrate [C₃N₆H₇]₂[C₆N₉H] · C₃N₆H₆ · 2 H₂O ( 2 ) were obtained by metathesis reactions from Na₃[C₆N₉] in aqueous solution and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and ¹⁵N solid‐state NMR spectroscopy ( 1 ). Both salts contain mono‐protonated tricyanomelaminate (TCM) anions and crystallize as dihydrates. Considering charge balance requirements, the crystal structure of 1 (C2/c, a = 3181.8(6) pm, b = 360.01(7) pm, c = 2190.4(4) pm, β = 112.39(3)°, V = 2319.9(8) 10⁶ · pm³) can best be described by assuming a random distribution of an ammonium ion – crystal water pair over two energetically similar sites. Apart from two melaminium cations, 2 (P2₁/c, a = 674.7(5) pm, b = 1123.6(5) pm, c = 3400.2(5) pm, β = 95.398(5), V = 2566(2) 10⁶ · pm³) contains one neutral melamine per formula unit acting as an additional “solvent” molecule and yielding a donor‐acceptor type of π–stacking interaction.     

Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Octahydro‐5H,12H‐4,11‐methano‐1H,7H‐bis[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4‐d:3′,4′‐j][1,7,3,9]dioxadiazacyclododecine

The unusual 12‐membered ring compound, octahydro‐5H,12H‐4,11‐methano‐1H,7H‐bis[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4‐d:3′,4′‐j][1,7,3,9]dioxadiazacyclododecine is obtained from the acid catalyzed reaction of 3‐amino‐4‐hydroxymethylfurazan with formaldehyde instead of the expected methylene‐bridged compound, 4,4′‐methylenebis[4,5‐dihydro‐7H‐[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4‐d][1,3]oxazine]. The compound crystallizes in Tetragonal, P4₃2₁2, a = 6.4141(4) Å, b = 6.4141(4) Å, c = 26.525(3) Å, α = 90°, β = 90°, γ = 90°, V = 1091.27(16) ų, Z = 4, dcalc = 1.614 Mg/m³.     

Simple Access to the Heaviest Alkaline Earth Metal Hydride: A Strongly Reducing Hydrocarbon‐Soluble Barium Hydride Cluster

Reaction of Ba[N(SiMe₃)₂]₂ with PhSiH₃ in toluene gave simple access to the unique Ba hydride cluster Ba₇H₇[N(SiMe₃)₂]₇ that can be described as a square pyramid spanned by five Ba²⁺ ions with two flanking BaH[N(SiMe₃)₂] units. This heptanuclear cluster is well soluble in aromatic solvents, and the hydride ¹H NMR signals and coupling pattern suggests that the structure is stable in solution. At 95 °C, no coalescence of hydride signals is observed but the cluster slowly decomposes to undefined barium hydride species. The complex Ba₇H₇[N(SiMe₃)₂]₇ is a very strong reducing agent that already at room temperature reacts with Me₃SiCH=CH₂, norbornadiene, and ethylene. The highly reactive alkyl barium intermediates cannot be observed and deprotonate the (Me₃Si)₂N⁻ ion, as confirmed by the crystal structure of Ba₁₄H₁₂[N(SiMe₃)₂]₁₂[(Me₃Si)(Me₂SiCH₂)N]₄.     

Das Lanthan‐Dodekahydro‐closo‐Dodekaborat‐Hydrat [La(H2O)9]2[B12H12]3·15 H2O und sein Oxonium‐Chlorid‐Derivat [La(H2O)9](H3O)Cl2[B12H12]·H2O

The Lanthanum Dodecahydro‐closo‐Dodecaborate Hydrate [La(H₂O)₉]₂[B₁₂H₁₂]₃·15 H₂O and its Oxonium‐Chloride Derivative [La(H₂O)₉](H₃O)Cl₂[B₁₂H₁₂]·H₂O By neutralization of an aqueous solution of the free acid (H₃O)₂[B₁₂H₁₂] with basic La₂O₃ and after isothermic evaporation colourless, face‐rich single crystals of a water‐rich lanthanum(III) dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate hydrate [La(H₂O)₉]₂[B₁₂H₁₂]₃·15 H₂O are isolated. The compound crystallizes in the trigonal system with the centrosymmetric space group (a = 1189.95(2), c = 7313.27(9) pm, c/a = 6.146; Z = 6; measuring temperature: 100 K). The crystal structure of [La(H₂O)₉]₂[B₁₂H₁₂]₃·15 H₂O can be characterized by two of each other independent, one into another posed motives of lattice components. The [B₁₂H₁₂]²⁻ anions (d(B–B) = 177–179 pm; d(B–H) = 105–116 pm) are arranged according to the samarium structure, while the La³⁺ cations are arranged according to the copper structure. The lanthanum cations are coordinated in first sphere by nine oxygen atoms from water molecules in form of a threecapped trigonal prism (d(La–O) = 251–262 pm). A coordinative influence of the [B₁₂H₁₂]²⁻ anions on La³⁺ has not been determined. Since “zeolitic” water of hydratation is also present, obviously the classical H–O^δ–···^+δH–O‐hydrogen bonds play a significant role in the stabilization of the crystal structure. During the conversion of an aqueous solution of (H₃O)₂[B₁₂H₁₂] with lanthanum trichloride an anion‐mixed salt with the composition [La(H₂O)₉](H₃O)Cl₂[B₁₂H₁₂]·H₂O is obtained. The compound crystallizes in the hexagonal system with the non‐centrosymmetric space group (a = 808.84(3), c = 2064.51(8) pm, c/a = 2.552; Z = 2; measuring temperature: 293 K). The crystal structure can be characterized as a layer‐like structure, in which [B₁₂H₁₂]²⁻ anions and H₃O⁺ cations alternate with layers of [La(H₂O)₉]³⁺ cations (d(La–O) = 252–260 pm) and Cl⁻ anions along [001]. The [B₁₂H₁₂]²⁻ (d(B–B) = 176–179 pm; d(B–H) = 104–113 pm) and Cl⁻ anions exhibit no coordinative influence on La³⁺. Hydrogen bonds are formed between the H₃O⁺ cations and [B₁₂H₁₂]²⁻ anions, also between the water molecules of [La(H₂O)₉]³⁺ and Cl⁻ anions, which contribute to the stabilization of the crystal structure.     

catena‐Poly[bis[1‐chloromethyl‐1,4‐diazoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane] [cadmium(II)‐tri‐μ‐chlorido‐[chloridocadmium(II)]‐di‐μ‐chlorido‐[chloridocadmium(II)]‐tri‐μ‐chlorido] tetrahydrate]

The title compound, {(C₇H₁₅N₂Cl)₂[Cd₃Cl₁₀]·4H₂O}_n, consists of 1‐chloromethyl‐1,4‐diazoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane dications, one‐dimensional inorganic chains of {[Cd₃Cl₁₀]⁴⁻} anions and uncoordinated water molecules. Each of the two independent Cd^II ions, one with site symmetry 2/m and the other with site symmetry m, is octahedrally coordinated by chloride ions (two with site symmetry m and one with site symmetry 2), giving rise to novel polymeric zigzag chains of corner‐sharing Cd‐centred octahedra parallel to the c axis. The organic cations, bisected by mirror planes that contain the two N atoms, three methylene C atoms and the Cl atom, are ordered. Hydrogen bonds (O—H...Cl and O—H...O) between the water molecules (both with O atoms in a mirror plane) and the chloride anions of neighbouring chloridocadmate chains form a three‐dimensional supramolecular network.     

Synthesis,Crystal Structures,and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Two Cubane‐Like Cluster Compounds [(n‐Bu)4N]3[MoS4Ag3Cl4] and [Et4N]3[WOS3Cu3I4]

The compounds [(n‐Bu)₄N]₃[MoS₄Ag₃Cl₄] ( 1 ) and [Et₄N]₃[WOS₃Cu₃I₄] ( 2 ) were synthesized and characterized. Compound 1 crystallizes in the rhombohedral system, space group R3c with a = 17.194(1), b = 17.194(1), c = 39.194(3)Å, Z = 6, V = 10034.7(11)ų. Compound 2 crystallizes in the rhombohedral system, space group R3c with a = 14.461(2), b = 14.461(2), c = 34.952(2)Å, Z = 6, V = 6329.9(13)ų. The X‐ray crystallographic structure determinations show that these two cluster compounds consist of a slightly distorted cubic core. Nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of these two clusters were investigated by using Z‐scan techniques with an 8 ns pulsed laser at 532 nm; both clusters exhibit strong nonlinear optical absorption effect (effective α₂ = 1.18 × 10^—10 m · W^—1 for 1 and 1.0 × 10^—10 m · W^—1 for 2 ).     

Synthesis and Molecular Structures of Tetrasilyl Ethers of Calix[4]arenes

The tetrasilyl ethers calix[4]areneOSiMe₂R (R = Me, H, vinyl, allyl) were prepared by salt elimination; the calix[4]arene was deprotonated with sodium hydride and subsequently reacted with chlorosilanes ClSiMe₂R. In general, DMF was chosen as solvent in order to steer the reactions in terms of a preference for the cone‐conformation of the products. In the case of calix[4]areneOSiMe₃ both, partial‐cone‐ and cone‐conformers, were synthesised. All products were characterised by NMR (¹H, ¹³C, ²⁹Si) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction.     

Zwei Dodekahydro‐closo‐Dodekaborate mit Lone‐Pair‐Kationen der 6. Periode im Vergleich: Tl2[B12H12] und Pb(H2O)3[B12H12]·3H2O

During the reaction of an aqueous solution of (H₃O)₂[B₁₂H₁₂] with Tl₂CO₃ anhydrous thallium(I) dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate Tl₂[B₁₂H₁₂] is obtained as colorless, spherical single crystals. It crystallizes in the cubic system with the centrosymmetric space group Fm$\bar{3}$ (a = 1074.23(8) pm, Z = 4) in an anti‐CaF₂ type structure. Four quasi‐icosahedral [B₁₂H₁₂]^2– anions (d(B–B) = 180–181 pm, d(B–H) = 111 pm) exhibit coordinative influence on each Tl⁺ cation and provide a twelvefold coordination in the shape of a cuboctahedron (d(Tl–H) = 296 pm). There is no observable stereochemical activity of the non‐bonding electron pairs (6s² lone pairs) at the Tl⁺ cations. By neutralization of an aqueous solution of the acid (H₃O)₂[B₁₂H₁₂] with PbCO₃ and after isothermic evaporation colorless, plate‐like single crystals of lead(II) dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate hexahydrate Pb(H₂O)₃[B₁₂H₁₂] · 3H₂O can be isolated. This compound crystallizes orthorhombically with the non‐centrosymmetric space group Pna2₁ (a = 1839.08(9), b = 1166.52(6), c = 717.27(4) pm, Z = 4). The crystal structure of Pb(H₂O)₃[B₁₂H₁₂] · 3H₂O is characterized as a layer‐like arrangement. The Pb²⁺ cations are coordinated in first sphere by only three oxygen atoms from water molecules (d(Pb–O) = 247–248 pm). But a coordinative influence of the [B₁₂H₁₂]^2– anions (d(B–B) = 173–181 pm, d(B–H) = 93–122 pm) on lead has to be stated, too, as three hydrogen atoms from three different hydroborate anions are attached to the Pb²⁺ cations (d(Pb–H) = 258–270 pm) completing their first‐sphere coordination number to six. These three oxygen and three hydrogen ligands are arranged as quite irregular polyhedron leaving enough space for a stereochemical lone‐pair activity (6sp) at each Pb²⁺ cation. Since additional intercalating water of hydration is present as well, both classical H–O^δ– ··· ^+δH–O‐ and unconventional B–H^δ– ··· ^+δH–O hydrogen bonds play a significant role in the stabilization of the entire crystal structure.     

Anion recognition and cation-induced molecular motion in a heteroditopic [2]rotaxane

A heteroditopic [2]rotaxane consisting of a calix[4]diquinone–isophthalamide macrocycle and 3,5‐bis‐amide pyridinium axle components with the capability of switching between two positional isomers in response to barium cation recognition is synthesised. The anion binding properties of the rotaxane’s interlocked cavity together with Na⁺, K⁺, NH₄⁺ and Ba²⁺ cation recognition capabilities are elucidated by ¹H NMR and UV‐visible spectroscopic titration experiments. Upon binding of Ba²⁺, molecular displacement of the axle’s positively charged pyridinium group from the rotaxane’s macrocyclic cavity occurs, whereas the monovalent cations Na⁺, K⁺ and NH₄⁺ are bound without causing significant co‐conformational change. The barium cation induced shuttling motion can be reversed on addition of tetrabutylammonium sulfate.     

Kristallstrukturen „supramolekularer”︁ (Benzo‐18‐krone‐6)kaliumtetrathiocyanatometallate: Ein dimerer Komplex {[K(Benzo‐18‐krone‐6)]2[Hg(SCN)4]}2 und zwei isomere Komplexe [K(Benzo‐18‐krone‐6)][Cd(SCN)3] mit kettenförmigen Trithiocyanatocadmat‐Anionen

Crystal Structures of „Supramolecular”︁ Benzo‐18‐crown‐6 Potassium Tetrathiocyanato Metallates: A Dimeric Complex {[K(Benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]₂[Hg(SCN)₄]}₂ and Two Isomeric Complexes [K(Benzo‐18‐crown‐6)][Cd(SCN)₃] Containing Trithiocyanato Cadmate Anions with Chain Structures By reaction of potassium thiocyanatomercurate(II) complexes with benzo‐18‐crown‐6 (2,3‐benzo‐1,4,7,10,13,16‐hexaoxacyclooctadec‐2‐ene) crystals of {[K(benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]₂[Hg(SCN₄)]}₂ ( 1 ) were obtained. 1 crystallizes monoclinic, space group P2₁/n (non‐standard setting of P2₁/c), a = 1737.35(2), b = 1377.16(2), c = 1984.12(3) pm, β = 100.637(1)°, Z = 2. With potassium tetrathiocyanatocadmate(II) two modifications of a complex [K(benzo‐18‐crown‐6)][Cd(SCN)₃] ( 2 , 3 ), of different symmetry were formed. 2 crystallizes monoclinic, P2₁/c, a = 1158,31(3), b = 1096,55(2), c = 2028,46(2) pm, β = 99,5261(2)°, Z = 4, 3  orthorhombic, P2₁cn, a = 1105,95(3), b = 1413,07(4), c = 1617,10(5) pm, Z = 4. 1 has a dimeric structure, built up from a dication K₂(benzo‐18‐crown‐6)₂]²⁺ and two [K(benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]⁺ cations, which are bridged by two [Hg(SCN)₄]^2– anions. In 2 and 3 triply bridged infinite [{Cd(SCN)₃^–}_n] zigzag chains, stretching along screw axes, are to be found as anions. In 2 these chains exist in two conformations related by inversion symmetry, whereas in 3 only one form can be found. [K(benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]⁺ cations are linked to the anion chains via K · · · S interactions of different lengths.     

A [RuRu] Analogue of an [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Traps the Key Hydride Intermediate of the Catalytic Cycle

The active site of the [FeFe]‐hydrogenases features a binuclear [2Fe]_H sub‐cluster that contains a unique bridging amine moiety close to an exposed iron center. Heterolytic splitting of H₂ results in the formation of a transient terminal hydride at this iron site, which, however is difficult to stabilize. We show that the hydride intermediate forms immediately when [2Fe]_H is replaced with [2Ru]_H analogues through artificial maturation. Outside the protein, the [2Ru]_H analogues form bridging hydrides, which rearrange to terminal hydrides after insertion into the apo‐protein. H/D exchange of the hydride only occurs for [2Ru]_H analogues containing the bridging amine moiety.     

Über den H‐ und A‐Typ von La2[Si2O7]

On the H‐ and A‐Type Structure of La₂[Si₂O₇] By thermal decomposition of La₃F₃[Si₃O₉] at 700 °C in a CsCl flux single crystals of a new form of La₂[Si₂O₇] have been found which is called H type (triclinic, P1; a = 681.13(4), b = 686.64(4), c = 1250.23(8) pm, α = 82.529(7), β = 88.027(6), γ = 88.959(6)°; V_m = 87.223(9) cm³/mol, D_x = 5.113(8) g/cm³, Z = 4) continuing Felsche's nomenclature. It crystallizes isotypically to the triclinic K₂[Cr₂O₇] in a structure closely related to that of A–La₂[Si₂O₇] (tetragonal, P4₁; a = 683.83(7), c = 2473.6(4) pm; V_m = 87.072(9) cm³/mol, D_x = 5.122(8) g/cm³, Z = 8). For comparison, the latter has been refined from single crystal data, too. Both the structures can be described as sequence of layers of each of two crystallographically different [Si₂O₇]^6– anions always built up of two corner‐linked [SiO4] tetrahedra in eclipsed conformation with non‐linear Si–O–Si bridges (∢(Si–O–Si) = 128–132°) piled up in [001] direction and aligned almost parallel to the c axis. They differ only in layer sequence: Whereas the double tetrahedra of the disilicate units are tilted alternating to the left and in view direction ([010]; stacking sequence: AB) in H–La₂[Si₂O₇], after layer B there follow due to the 4₁ screw axis layers with anions tilted to the right and tilted against view direction ([010]; stacking sequence: ABA′B′) in A–La₂[Si₂O₇]. The extremely irregular coordination polyhedra around each of the four crystallographically independent La³⁺ cations in both forms (H and A type) consist of eight to ten oxygen atoms in spacing intervals of 239 to 330 pm. The possibility of more or less ordered intermediate forms will be discussed.     

Syntheses,Crystal Structures,and Reactivity of [enH]4[Sn2Se6]·en, [enH]4[Sn2Te6]·en and [enH]4[Sn2S6]: Known Anions within Novel Coordination Spheres obtained by Novel Synthesis Routes

The hexachalcogenodistannates K₆[Sn^III₂Se₆] or Li₄[Sn^IV₂Te₆]·8en were recently reported to simultaneously act as mild oxidants and chalcogenide sources in reactions with CoCl₂/LiCp* (Cp* = pentamethylcyclopentadienide) while the Sn—E (E = Se, Te) fragment is not kept in the products, e.g. [(Cp*Co)₃(μ₃‐Se)₂], [(Cp*Co)₃(μ₃‐Se)₂][Cl₂Co(μ₂‐Cl)₂Li(thf)₂] or [(Cp*Co)₄(μ₃‐Te)₄]. In search of related reagents with possibly different reaction behavior, we isolated and crystallographically characterized isotypic compounds [enH]₄[Sn^IV₂Se₆]�en ( 1 ), and [enH]₄[Sn^IV₂Te₆]·en ( 2 ) (en = 1, 2‐diaminoethane), that result from an uncommon disproportion/re‐arrangement reaction: distannate(III) K₆[Sn₂E₆] (E = Se, Te) was reacted with en·2HCl to yield 1 or 2 under disproportion of Sn^III to Sn^II and Sn^IV. Another pathway was necessary to synthesize the respective but solvent‐free thiostannate [enH]₄ [Sn^IV₂S₆] ( 3 ), since the phase “K₆[Sn₂S₆]” is unknown. This second method started out from SnCl₄·2THF and S(SiMe₃)₂ in en solution. However, using E(SiMe₃)₂ (E = Se, Te) instead of S(SiMe₃)₂, 1 and 2 are also obtained this way. 1—3 are the first chalcogenostannates that exhibit exclusively [enH]⁺ counterions. The compounds were characterized by means of X‐ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy. They seem to be suitable for reactions towards group 8‐10 metal complexes. Preliminary experiments indicate that the binary anions 1 — 3 coordinated by 1‐aminoethylammonium ions react more slowly compared to the anionic phases tested until now.     

Untersuchungen zur Kristallstruktur von Lithium‐dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborat aus wäßriger Lösung: Li2(H2O)7[B12H12]

Investigations on the Crystal Structure of Lithium Dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate from Aqueous Solution: Li₂(H₂O)₇[B₁₂H₁₂] By neutralization of an aqueous solution of the acid (H₃O)₂[B₁₂H₁₂] with lithium hydroxide (LiOH) and subsequent isothermic evaporation of the resulting solution to dryness, it was possible to obtain the heptahydrate of lithium dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate Li₂[B₁₂H₁₂] · 7 H₂O (≡ Li₂(H₂O)₇[B₁₂H₁₂]). Its structure has been determined from X‐ray single crystal data at room temperature. The compound crystallizes as colourless, lath‐shaped, deliquescent crystals in the orthorhombic space group Cmcm with the lattice constants a = 1215.18(7), b = 934.31(5), c = 1444.03(9) pm and four formula units in the unit cell. The crystal structure of Li₂(H₂O)₇[B₁₂H₁₂] can not be described as a simple AB₂‐structure type. Instead it forms a layer‐like structure analogous to the well‐known barium compound Ba(H₂O)₆[B₁₂H₁₂]. Characteristic feature is the formation of isolated cation pairs [Li₂(H₂O)₇]²⁺ in which the water molecules form two [Li(H₂O)₄]⁺ tetrahedra with eclipsed conformation, linked to a dimer via a common corner. The bridging oxygen atom (∢(Li‐ O ‐Li) = 112°) thereby formally substitutes Ba²⁺ in Ba(H₂O)₆[B₁₂H₁₂] according to (H₂ O )Li₂(H₂O)₆[B₁₂H₁₂]. A direct coordinative influence of the [B₁₂H₁₂]^2— cluster anions to the Li⁺ cations is not noticeable, however. The positions of the hydrogen atoms of both the water molecules and the [B₁₂H₁₂]^2— units have all been localized. In addition, the formation of B‐H^δ—···^δ+H‐O‐hydrogen bonds between the water molecules and the hydrogen atoms from the anionic [B₁₂H₁₂]^2— clusters is considered and their range and strength is discussed. The dehydratation of the heptahydrate has been investigated by DTA‐TG measurements and shown to take place in two steps at 56 and 151 °C, respectively. Thermal treatment leads to the anhydrous lithium dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate Li₂[B₁₂H₁₂], eventually.     

Synthesis and Crystal Structure of 4,7‐Diaryl‐5‐oxo‐4H‐benzo[b]pyran Derivatives

A green and convenient approach to the synthesis of a series of 4,7‐diaryl‐5‐oxo‐4H‐benzo[b]pyran derivatives from appropriate aromatic aldehydes and 5‐aryl‐1,3‐cyclohexanedione with malononitrile in the presence of dilute HCl as catalyst (30 mmol/L) is described. This method provides several advantages such as environmental friendliness, low cost, high yields, and simple work up procedure. The structures of all compounds were characterized by infrared (IR), mass spectrometry (MS), ¹H NMR, and elemental analysis. The crystal structure of trans/cis‐2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐7‐(4′‐methoxo‐phenyl)‐4‐phenyl‐5‐oxo‐4H‐benzo[b]pyran, g , was determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The crystal of compound g belongs to monoclinic with space group P 21/c, a = 8.477(3) nm, b = 18.948(6) nm, c = 24.915(7) nm, α = 90.00°, β = 107.388(11)°, γ= 90.00°, Z = 8, V = 3.819(2) nm³, R₁ = 0.0754, wR₂ = 0.2042.     

Das erste Alkalimetall‐Lanthanoid(III)‐Iodid‐Oxotellurat(IV): Na2Lu3I3[TeO3]4

Colorless platelets of Na₂Lu₃I₃[TeO₃]₄ were obtained within five days at 775 °C by the reaction of Lu₂O₃ and TeO₂ in a 3:8 molar ratio with NaI added in excess as both fluxing agent and reactant in evacuated silica ampoules. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2/c with the lattice parameters a = 921.69(5), b = 552.71(3), c = 1664.37(9) pm, β = 90.218(4)° and Z = 2. The crystal structure of Na₂Lu₃I₃[TeO₃]₄ exhibits two crystallographically different Lu³⁺ cations, both coordinated by eight O^2– anions as square antiprisms. These polyhedra are interconnected through four common edges to build up {}^2_∞ {[LuO{}^e_8/2 ]^5–} layers (e = edge‐linking) parallel to (100). Furthermore, the crystal structure includes a crystallographically unique Na⁺ cation surrounded by four O^2– and four I^– anions also in the shape of a square antiprism. These polyhedra connect via common (I2)^–···(I2)^– edges in generating {}^1_∞ {[Na₂O₈I{}^e_4 ]^18–} double‐strands that are further linked by (I1)^– vertices to result in the formation of {}^2_∞ {[Na₂O₈I₃{}^e,v_3 ]^17–} layers (v = vertex‐linking) spreading out parallel to (100) as well. Thus, the crystal structure contains two crystallographically distinct I^– anions, of which (I1)^– is coordinated nearly linear (? (Na–I1–Na) = 179.6°) by two Na⁺ cations, whereas (I2)^– has contact to three of them displaying a distance of 114 pm from the triangular (Na⁺)₃ plane. The crystal structure of Na₂Lu₃I₃[TeO₃]₄ is completed by two crystallographically independent Te⁴⁺ cations that show stereochemically active non‐bonding electron pairs (“lone pairs”) and are located above and below the {}^2_∞ {[LuO{}^e_8/2 ]^5–} layers forming isolated ψ¹‐tetrahedral [TeO₃]^2– anions (d(Te–O) = 188–190 pm) with all oxygen atoms.     

Neue Kronenether‐stabilisierte Oxoniumhalogenochalkogenate: [H3O(Dibromo‐benzo‐18‐Krone‐6)]2[Se3Br10] und [H5O2(Bis‐dibromo‐dibenzo‐24‐Krone‐8]2[Se3Br8]

Novel Oxonium Halogenochalcogenates Stabilized by Crown Ethers: [H₃O(Dibromo‐benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]₂[Se₃Br₁₀] and [H₅O₂(Bis‐dibromo‐dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8]₂[Se₃Br₈] Two novel complex oxonium bromoselenates(II,IV) and –(II) are reported containing [H₃O]⁺ and [H₅O₂]⁺ cations coordinated by crown ether ligands. [H₃O(dibromo‐benzo‐18‐crown‐6)]₂[Se₃Br₁₀] ( 1 ) and [H₅O₂(bis‐dibromo‐dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8]₂[Se₃Br₈] ( 2 ) were prepared as dark red crystals from dichloromethane or acetonitrile solutions of selenium tetrabromide, the corresponding unsubstituted crown ethers, and aqueous hydrogen bromide. The products were characterized by their crystal structures and by vibrational spectra. 1 is triclinic, space group (Nr. 2) with a = 8.609(2) Å, b = 13.391(3) Å, c = 13.928(3) Å, α = 64.60(2)°, β = 76.18(2)°, γ = 87.78(2)°, V = 1404.7(5) ų, Z = 1. 2 is also triclinic, space group with a = 10.499(2) Å, b = 13.033(3) Å, c = 14.756(3) Å, α = 113.77(3)°, β = 98.17(3)°, γ = 93.55(3)°. V = 1813.2(7) ų, Z = 1. In the reaction mixture complex redox reactions take place, resulting in (partial) reduction of selenium and bromination of the crown ether molecules. In 1 the centrosymmetric trinuclear [Se₃Br₁₀]^2? consists of a central Se^IVBr₆ octahedron sharing trans edges with two square planar Se^IIBr₄ groups. The novel [Se₃Br₈]^2? in 2 is composed of three planar trans‐edge sharing Se^IIBr₄ squares in a linear arrangement. The internal structure of the oxonium‐crown ether complexes is largely determined by the steric restrictions imposed by the aromatic rings in the crown ether molecules, as compared to complexes with more flexible unsubstituted crown ether ligands.     

New Class of Hydrido Iron(II) Compounds with cis‐Reactive Sites: Combination of Iron and Diphosphinodithio Ligand

The cationic complex [Fe(P₂S₂)(NCMe)₂]²⁺ (P₂S₂=(Ph₂PC₆H₄CH₂S)₂(C₂H₄) ([ 1 (NCMe)₂]²⁺)), with two MeCN ligands in a cis orientation, was synthesized and characterized. The MeCN ligand in [ 1 (NCMe)₂]²⁺ undergoes further substitution by a hydride ligand or CO to give iron(II) hydrides [H 1 (NCMe)]⁺, [H 1 H]⁰, and [H 1 (CO)]⁺. The order of reactivity of the hydrides was [H 1 H]⁰>[H 1 (NCMe)]⁺>[H 1 (CO)]⁺, and was illustrated by their reactions toward protic acids, the organic cation of 10‐methylacridinium (MeAcr⁺) as a hydride acceptor, and intermolecular hydride transfer reactions among these ferrous compounds. For example, MeAcr⁺ was reduced initially by a one‐electron transfer process from [H 1 H]⁰, resulting in competing reactions of MeAcr^. dimerization, hydrogen atom transfer from [H 1 H]⁺ to MeAcr^., and decomposition of [H 1 H]⁺. MeAcrH was produced in excellent yields through a single‐step H^? transfer from [H 1 (NCMe)]⁺ to MeAcr⁺, but [H 1 (CO)]⁺ was inactive toward MeAcr⁺.