Rings, Clusters and Polymers of Main Group and Transition Elements

The chemistry of rings, clusters and polymers is becoming an important branch of inorganic and organometallic chemistry. Although inorganic rings have been known for more than 150 years, they have only been structurally characterized within the last fifty years. Inorganic and organometallic clusters and polymers have recently become the subject of intense interest and study because of their unusual properties and their potential for applications in the areas of catalysis, electronics and ceramics. Transition metal clusters have been examined as models for heterogeneous catalysts. Both rings and clusters might function as potential building blocks for extended solid state systems. In comparison with organic polymers, however, general and versatile methods for the synthesis of inorganic and organometallic polymers are not readily available. In particular, the preparation of polymers containing transition metal atoms in the polymer backbone is a challenge to inorganic chemistry. This book describes the rapid development which has taken place in this field.
 
The chemistry of rings, clusters and polymers is becoming an important branch of inorganic and organometallic chemistry. Although inorganic rings have been known for more than 150 years, they have only been structurally characterized within the last fifty years. Inorganic and organometallic clusters and polymers have recently become the subject of intense interest and study because of their unusual properties and their potential for applications in the areas of catalysis, electronics and ceramics. Transition metal clusters have been examined as models for heterogeneous catalysts. Both rings and clusters might function as potential building blocks for extended solid state systems. In comparison with organic polymers, however, general and versatile methods for the synthesis of inorganic and organometallic polymers are not readily available. In particular, the preparation of polymers containing transition metal atoms in the polymer backbone is a challenge to inorganic chemistry. This book describes the rapid development which has taken place in this field.