The Chemical Nature of Ti4O10–: Vibrational Predissociation Spectroscopy Combined with Global Structure Optimization

The gas-phase infrared spectrum of Ti4O10– is studied in the spectral range from 400 cm–1 to 1250 cm–1 using cryogenic ion trap vibrational spectroscopy, in combination with density functional theory (DFT). The infrared photodissociation (IRPD) spectrum of D2-tagged Ti4O10– provides evidence for a structure of lower symmetry that contains a superoxo group (1121 cm–1) and two terminal Ti=O moieties. DFT combined with a genetic algorithm for global structure optimization predicts two isomers which feature a superoxo group: the Cs symmetric global minimum-energy structure and a similar isomer (C1) that is slightly higher in energy. Coupled cluster calculations confirm the relative stability. Comparison of the harmonic DFT spectra (different functionals) with the IRPD spectrum suggests that both of these isomers contribute. Earlier assignments to the adamantane-like C3v isomer with three terminal Ti–O• – groups in a quartet state are not confirmed. They were based on the infrared multiple photon photodissociation (IRMPD) spectrum of bare Ti4O10– and local DFT structure optimizations.