Polynuclear molybdenum(VI)–molybdenum(V) complex: a precursor of the catalyst for dinitrogen reduction

Abstract

Crystal structure was determined of the complex {[Mg₂Mo₈O₂₂(MeO)₆(MeOH)₄]^2–[Mg(MeOH)₆]²⁺}· 6MeOH (1), isolated from methanolic solution containing Mo^V, Mo^VI, and Mg^II compounds; when reduced to the Mo^III state the complex forms an active catalyst for N₂ reduction in methanol at ambient temperature and pressure.