Progress in three-dimensional aromatic-like closo-dodecaborate

The continuous discovery and derivatization of members of the closed borane family indicate that boron chemistry is about to embark on a development trajectory similar to that of carbon chemistry. Thus, three-dimensional, aromatic-like icosahedron closo-dodecaborate (denoted as boron cluster or closo-[B12H12]2−), which has the most perfect structure and the most stable physical and chemical properties in the closed borane family, has begun to undertake important missions in the fields of medicine, energetic materials, host–guest chemistry, new energy, environmental treatment, and optoelectronic materials. Closo-[B12H12]2− attracts increasing research attention because of its unique properties including being abundant hydrogen bond acceptors or donors, the unique chaotropic effect, 12 symmetrical modifiable B–H bonds, high ionic conductivity, high calorific value and weak reduction, and electronically adjustable photoelectric conversion. However, there are almost no reviews or books focusing on the progress and future of closo-[B12H12]2−; this is detrimental to the full development of the potential of this functional anion cluster. Accordingly, this review summarizes the progress of closo-[B12H12]2− in detail, aiming to uncover the mystery of closo-[B12H12]2− and arouse the interest of researchers to promote the vigorous development of borane chemistry.