The isolation of a combined zirconium-chromium(III) basic sulphate complex

Abstract

The isolation and characterization of a relatively stable, highly basic zirconium-chromium(III) sulphate complex is described. This compound has an empirical formula corresponding to Na₂O,3ZrO₂,Cr₂O₃,₄SO₃,12H₂O and appears to exist as the disodium salt of a complex anion Na₂[Zr₃Cr₂(SO₄)₄(OH)₁₂,6H₂O]. Its properties indicate useful applications not only as a model compound to study the binding of transition metal complexes to proteins and peptides but also as a potential tanning agent for use in the leather industry.