Preparation and thermal decomposition of some oxomolybdenum(VI) oxalates

Anionic oxomolybdenum(VI) oxalates having the general formula A2[MoO3(C2O4] · H2O where A = K+ or NH4+ are prepared, characterized by chemical and infrared spectra and their thermal decomposition studied by DTA and TGA. A chain structure containing MoO6 octahedra linked through oxygen is proposed for the complex oxalates on the basis of i.r. absorption spectra. The ammonium compound decomposes endothermally around 270°C to give lower oxides of molybdenum which are finally oxidised to MoO3, while the final decomposition product of the potassium compound is K2MoO4. © 1970.