The reactions of [Fe(t-BuNC)(3)(CO)(2)] with HgX2 (X = Cl. Br or I) give tw
o different types of iron-mercury halide complex, depending on the molar ra
tio of reactants used. An equimolar ratio of the reactants produces the neu
tral adducts [Fe(t-BuNC)(3)(CO)(2)(HgX2)], whereas two equivalents of HgX2
generate the electrolytes [Fe(t-BuNC)(3)(CO)(2)(HgX)]HgX3. The Mossbauer, i
.r. data, and conductivity measurements of these complexes are presented an
d discussed in terms of their chemical structures and bonding.