Metalloid Cluster Compounds of Group 14: Bonding Properties and Subsequent Reactions

Abstract

Metalloid cluster compounds of group 14 of the general formulae E_nR_m with n > m (E = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb; R = ligand), where naked as well as ligand bound tetrel atoms are present, represent a novel class of cluster compounds in group 14 chemistry and can be seen as intermediates on the way to the elemental state. Therefore, interesting properties are expected for these compounds, which might complement results from nanotechnology. In this article, first results for germanium are discussed, together with novel build-up reactions on the way to novel materials based on metalloid cluster compounds.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Germanium
• metalloid clusters
• molecular wires
• nanotechnology

Acknowledgments

We thank the DFG for financial support, and Prof. Hansgeorg Schnöckel and Dipl. Chem. Claudio Schrenk for helpful discussions.