A highly emissive inorganic hexamolybdenum cluster complex as a handy precursor for the preparation of new luminescent materials.

The synthesis and characterisation of a new, highly luminescent inorganic cluster complex, (Bu4N)2[Mo6I8(NO3)6], are described. The complex possesses labile nitrato ligands and is therefore a useful precursor for the design of new luminescent materials. To exemplify this, functionalised polystyrene beads have been utilised as "polymeric ligands" to immobilise the molybdenum cluster complex.