Synthesis, crystal structure, and optical characteristics of [Pd2Hg4Cl6{Te(DMB)}6]·2DMF, [HgClTe(DMB)]4, and the ring-forming cluster [Pd12(TePh)24]·2DMF

Abstract

The clusters here discussed represent improvements to our preparative techniques directed toward the synthesis of ternary nanoclusters of the type MM′Te. Hg(TeR)₂ (R = (2,6-OCH₃)₂C₆H₃) reacts with PdCl₂ to give [Pd₂Hg₄Cl₆{(TeR)}₆]·2DMF (1) and [HgClTeR]₄ (2), and further with Pd(O₂CCH₃)₂ to give [Pd₁₂(TePh)₂₄]·2DMF (3). The core of compound 1 was analysed by first principles DFT and the results confirm the existence of two systems 3c–4e⁻, in which the two Te^II atoms act as bridging ligands. While compound 2 appears to provide the driving force for the formation of cluster 1. In the case of metallocycle 3, the driving force guiding the reaction probably originates from the mercury salts (HgCl₂ or Hg(Ac)₂) formed during the process.