Synthesis and structure of an unprecedented high-symmetry [Fe4S4Cl4] cubane-type unit in supramolecular [K-4(FeCl4)(C12H24O6)(4)][Fe4S4Cl4]

The reduction of SCN- ions with iron containing zirconium chloride clusters in the presence of 18-crown-6 gives crystals of [K-4(FeCl4)(C12H24O6)(4)][Fe4S4Cl4] which contain [Fe4S4Cl4] cubane-type clusters with full T-d symmetry, as well as supramolecular [K-4(FeCl4)(C12H24O6)(4)] complex cations.