Work

An efficient multi-gram access in a two-step synthesis to soluble, nine-atomic, silylated silicon clusters

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Silicon is by far the most important semiconducting material. However, solution-based synthetic approaches for unsaturated silicon-rich molecules require less efficient multi-step syntheses. We report on a straightforward access to soluble, polyhedral Si9 clusters from the binary phase K12Si17, which contains both [Si4]4- and [Si9]4- clusters. [Si4]4- ions, characterised by a high charge per atom ratio, behave as strong reducing agents, preventing [Si9]4- from directed reactions. By the here reported separation of [Si4]4-, Si9 clusters are isolated as monoprotonated [Si9H]3- ions on a multi-gram scale and further crystallised as their 2.2.2 Cryptate salt. 20 grams of the product can be obtained through this two-step procedure - a new starting point for silicon Zintl chemistry such as the first isolation and structural characterisation of a trisilylated [MeHyp3Si9]- cluster.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55211-z

Authors: Kevin M. Frankiewicz, Nicole S. Willeit, Viktor Hlukhyy, Thomas F. Fässler

Institution: Technical University of Munich

Language: English

Topic: Synthesis and characterization of novel inorganic/organometallic compounds

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,790

Funder: Technische Universität München