Synthesis, characterization and electronic properties of an icosahedral Zintl cluster [Ag@Pb 12 ] 3-

Abstract

The icosahedral Zintl cluster [Ag@Pb₁₂]³⁻ has been successfully synthesized via the reaction of K₄Pb₉ with an NHC silver complex, finally enriching the Group 11 triad of icosahedral plumbaspherenes after nearly ten years of pursuit. This unique series allows us to decouple the effects of metal identity (Ag vs. Au) and cage size (Pb₁₁ vs. Pb₁₂) on geometry and bonding. Structural comparison with [Au@Pb₁₂]³⁻ and [Ag@Pb₁₁]³⁻ reveals how metal identity and cage size govern geometry and electronic properties.