Mixed-valence states of polynuclear iron complexes

The valence-delocalization in mixed-valence binuclear ferrocene derivatives is investigated by using several physicochemical results. It is demonstrated that the mixed-valence state is controlled by the environment in the solid state. The mechanism of the valence-delocalization in 1',1'''-diethylbiferrocenium triiodide is discussed. The difference between the valence-delocalization accompanied by the symmetry change of the counter anion and the valence-delocalization without connection with the symmetry of the counter anion is discussed. The results are compared with those of oxo-centered trinuclear iron carboxylates. (orig.)