Non-aqueous neptunium and plutonium redox behaviour in THF – access to a rare Np(iii) synthetic precursor†
Abstract
Solvent exchange of NpCl4(DME)2 with THF proceeds simply to yield NpCl4(THF)3, whereas PuCl4(DME)2 is unstable in THF, partially decomposing to the mixed valent [PuIIICl2(THF)5][PuIVCl5(THF)] salt. Reduction of NpCl4(THF)3 with CsC8 ultimately afforded NpCl3(py)4, the only example of a structurally characterized solvated Np(III) halide. The method demonstrates a route to a well-defined Np(III) starting material without the need to employ scarcely available Np metal.
- This article is part of the themed collection: In celebration of Richard Andersen’s 75th birthday