Synthesis, thermogravimetry, optical features and X-ray structural characterization of a new Hg−Te dinuclear cluster compound obtained using an ultrasonic bath

Hg(TePh)2 reacts with P(Cy)3 {P(Cy)3 = tricyclohexylphosphine} under Ar atmosphere and ultrasonic bath to give the dinuclear cluster [Hg2(μ-PhTe)2(PhTe)2(PCy3)2] (1). Earlier attempts had not success because of the low solubility of Hg(PhTe)2 and the use of inadequate phosphines. TGA and IR data confirm the formation of 1 and the optical band gap of the compound could be estimated by means of UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra.