title: Photocatalysis of chloroform decomposition by hexachloroosmate(IV).
abstract: Hexachloroosmate(IV) effectively catalyzes the photodecomposition of chloroform in aerated solutions. The decomposition products are consistent with a mechanism in which excited state OsCl(6)(2-) reduces chloroform, rather than one involving photodissociation of chlorine atoms. Trace amounts of ethanol or water in the chloroform lead to photosubstitution to form OsCl(5)(EtOH)(-) or OsCl(5)(H(2)O)(-), neither of which is photocatalytically active.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Laura A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Peña
authors.forename: Patrick E
authors.initials: PE
authors.lastname: Hoggard