[NaBi(EDTA)(H2O)3]n: synthesis, crystal structure, and thermal behavior

The synthesis and crystal structure of the EDTA complex [NaBi(EDTA)(H2O)3]n are reported. It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system (space groupP21/c,a=6.822(1)Å,b=16.733(6)Å,c=13.763(2)Å, β=97.13(2)°). Bi(EDTA) entities are connected through carboxylate bridges resulting in layers parallel to the (010) plane. These layers are strongly linked by Na carboxylate and Na−OH2 bridging interactions, establishing short Bi−Na and Na−Na distances. Pyrolysis of this complex under sulfur vapor between 600 and 900°C leads to the mixed sulfide NaBiS2. Pyrolysis in air shows a very complicated decomposition mechanism and the probable formation of a bimetallic oxycarbonate.