Synthesis and Crystal Structure of UO₂Cl₂(THF)₃:  A Simple Preparation of an Anhydrous Uranyl Reagent

Reaction of UO2Cl2·x(H2O) (x = 1, 3) with 6 equiv of ClSiMe3 in THF provides yellow UO2Cl2(THF)3. The single-crystal X-ray structure of the complex reveals a monomer in which the U is coordinated in a pseudopentagonal bipyramidal fashion by two apical oxo groups, three equatorial THF ligands, and two Cl groups. Upon drying the compound, dimeric [UO2Cl2(THF)2]2 is isolated. This compound is a suitable anhydrous starting material for a variety of uranyl coordination compounds.