Linking Icosahedral, Strong Molecular Magnets {MoFe} to Layers—A Solid-State Reaction at Room Temperature

The by no means trivial, solid-state reaction for the condensation of {(Mo)Mo5}12Fe30 giant spheres commences through the water ligands and leads to oxo (or hydroxo) bridging. As the discrete icosahedral units approach each other, their oxygen atom bridges ultimately form covalent bonds (Fe−Fe 3.79 Å, see picture) to result in a symmetric layered structure.