Experimentally Based DFT Calculations on the Hindered Disproportionation of [Al4Cp*4]: Formation of Metalloid Clusters as Intermediates on the Way to Solid Al Prevents the Decomposition of a Textbook Molecule

Clusters are the answer! The formation of metalloid clusters such as [Al50Cp*12] (Cp*=C5Me5) species are responsible for the kinetically hindered decomposition of [Al4Cp*4] to metallic aluminum; that is, metalloid clusters may be considered as nuclei for the formation of metals (see graphic).