Photocatalytical decomposition of hydrazine in K4[Mo(CN)8] solution: X-ray crystal structure of (PPh4)2[Mo(CN)4O(NH3)] · 2H2O

Ligand-field photolysis of K4[Mo(CN)8] · 2H2O in 98% N2H4 · H2O yields the catalytical decomposition of N2H4 into NH3 and N2. From irradiated solutions of octacyanomolybdate(IV) both in NH3(aq) and 98% N2H4 · H2O(l) as solvents, the salt of the formula (PPh4)2[Mo(CN)4O(NH3)] · 2H2O was isolated. The salt is not formed by direct ligand replacement in tetracyanooxomolybdate(IV) ions derived from K3Na[Mo(CN)4O2] · 6H2O as the solute in similar conditions. The X-ray crystal structure and spectral properties of (PPh4)2[Mo(CN)4O(NH3)] · 2H2O are described. The improved method of the synthesis of K4[Mo(CN)8] · 2H2O is also presented.