Layered intercalation complexes of the hydrogen bronze H0.5MoO3 With organic lewis bases

The topotactic formation and the structure of layered intercalation complexes LyHxMoO3 obtained by the reaction of hydrogen bronzes HxMoO3 with organic Lewis base donor molecules L are described. The considerable stability of these complexes is discussed in terms of an ionic bonding model involving proton transfer from the host layers to the guest molecules. It is demonstrated that Lewis base intercalation complexes may also form on ion exchange with hydrated molybdenum bronzes, on cathodic reduction of MoO3 in aqueous LH+ electrolytes and by direct thermal reaction. HxMo18O52 and Mo18O52 were found to undergo intercalation under conditions similar to those just described.