Synthesis and characterization of the first [Q]+[PhTeX4]− complex salt (Q=2-Br–C5NH5; Ph=C6H5; X=Br, I) exhibiting a polymeric chain structure

The reaction of diphenylditelluride with 2-bromopyridine in hydrobromide or hydroiodide acid affords the tetrahalophenyltellurate(IV) [2-Br–C5NH5][PhTeX4] (X=Br and I). The structures of the two salts were characterised by single crystal X-ray diffractometry. The anionic units show a square pyramidal geometry about the tellurium atoms with the phenyl rings in the apical positions. Secondary, interanionic Te⋯X bonds as well as cation–anion H–X interactions hold the moieties in polymeric chains with an octahedral configuration about each tellurium center along the crystal lattice.