An [FeIII30] molecular metal oxide

Dissolution of FeBr3 in a mixture of acetonitrile and 3,4-lutidine in the presence of an amine results in the formation of an [Fe30] molecular metal oxide containing alternating layers of tetrahedral and octahedral FeIII ions. Mass spectrometry suggests the cluster is formed quickly and remains stable in solution, while magnetic measurements and DFT calculations reveal competing antiferromagnetic exchange interactions.