The heteronuclear cluster RuOs3(μ-H)2(CO)13 — a high yield synthesis, isomerism and a triphenylphosphine derivative

A high-yielding alternative synthesis of the heteronuclear cluster RuOs3(μ-H)2(CO)13 has been developed. It is also demonstrated that the cluster exists as at least three isomers, which rapidly interconvert in solution. A triphenylphosphine derivative, RuOs3(μ-H)2(CO)12(PPh3), has also been prepared; this exists as two isomers, both of which have been characterised by single-crystal X-ray crystallographic studies.