Systematic cluster build up by the reaction of [Os3H(X)(CO)9(MeCN)](X = SR or NHMe; R = Me, Et, or Ph) with [OsH2(CO)4]

Abstract

[OsH₂(CO)₄] reacts with the acetonitrile derivatives [Os₃H(SR)(CO)₉(MeCN)](R = Me, Et, or Ph) and [Os₃H(NHMe)(CO)₉(MeCN)] to form the tetranuclear clusters [Os₄H₃(SR)(CO)₁₃] and [Os₄H₃(NHMe)(CO)₁₃] respectively. The cluster [Os₄H₃(OPh)(CO)₁₂(MeCN)] can be formed by treatment of [Os₃H(OPh)(CO)₁₀] with 2.2 equivalents of Me₃NO followed by [OsH₂(CO)₄]. This cluster reacts with P(OMe)₃ to form [Os₄H₃(OPh)(CO)₁₂{P(OMe)₃}]. All compounds were characterised by i.r., ¹H n.m.r., and mass spectroscopy.