Synthesis of uranium-in-cryptand complexes.

The facile encapsulation of U(iii) and La(iii) by 2.2.2-cryptand (crypt) using simple starting materials is described. Addition of crypt to UI3 and LaCl3 forms the crystallographically-characterizable complexes, [U(crypt)I2]I and [La(crypt)Cl2]Cl. In the presence of water, the U(iii)-aquo adducts, [U(crypt)I(OH2)][I]2 and [U(crypt)I(OH2)][I][BPh4], can be isolated.