Synthesis, structure, solid-state thermolysis, and thermodynamic properties of new heterometallic complex Li2Co2(Piv)6(NEt3)2

The reaction of lithium pivalate, polymeric cobalt pivalate [Co(Piv)2]n, and triethylamine in THF at 60 oS afforded the new heterometallic antiferromagnetic complex Li2Co2(Piv)6(NEt3)2 (2). The molecular and crystal structure of complex 2 was established and its magnetic behavior was studied. The vaporization and solid-state thermolysis of 2 were investigated. The thermodynamic characteristics of complex 2 were determined. The results of the present study show that complex 2 can be used as a potential molecular precursor for the synthesis of thin films of lithium cobaltate LiCoO2. - Graphical abstract: The solid-state thermolysis, study of the vaporization process, and temperature dependence of Sp for the new heterometallic complex Co2Li2(Piv)6(NEt3)2 were performed. Decomposition of Co2Li2(Piv)6(NEt3)2 results in the formation of LiCoO2.