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 K₄Mo(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)₂Mo(CN)₄O(NH₃)] · 2H₂O was isolated. The salt is not formed by direct ligand replacement in tetracyanooxomolybdate(IV) ions derived from K₃NaMo(CN)₄O₂] · 6H₂O as the solute in similar conditions. The X-ray crystal structure and spectral properties of (PPh₄)₂Mo(CN)₄O(NH₃)] · 2H₂O are described. The improved method of the synthesis of K₄Mo(CN)₈] · 2H₂O is also presented.