Solvent directed aggregation of a metallocene; structures of {[Pb(η-C5H5)2]3 ·C6H5Me}∞ and [Pb(η-C5H5)2]6

Abstract

The classic zigzagged chain structure of orthorhombic plumbocene, [Pb(η-C ₅ H ₅ ) ₂ ] _∞ , is obtained by crystal growth from the vapour phase; however, crystallisation from toluene results in modification of the conformation of the polymer chain, as observed in the solvate [Pb(η-C ₅ H ₅ )·C ₆ H ₅ Me ] _∞ 1, and cyclisation into hexamers, as seen in the new hexagonal phase [Pb(η-C ₅ H ₅ ) ₂ ] ₆ 2.