Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Evidence for a tetranuclear aluminum oxoalkoxide cluster Al4(μ4-0) (μ2OBμi)5(OBui)6 is presented, drawing on data from X-ray, NMR, MS and other spectroscopie and experimental investigations. In principle, these compounds are derived from the well-authenticated aluminum alkoxide tetramers by hydrolytic loss of only one alkoxy group. They contain a single central oxo ligand and only 5-coordinate aluminum atoms. They are the simplest discrete oxoalkoxide structures so far reported for aluminum and may be helpful in understanding the hydrolysis and condensation steps leading to hydrated aluminum oxide sols and gels.