Decavanadates

Decavanadates are polyoxovanadates with the general formula [V10O28]6-. They are anionic species formed by the condensation of vanadate ions in aqueous solution. The decavanadate anion is a well-defined, cage-like structure consisting of ten vanadium atoms linked by oxygen atoms. The V10O28 unit has a point group symmetry of D2h.

Decavanadates are typically formed under acidic conditions, usually with a pH between 2 and 6. As the pH of vanadate solutions decreases, smaller vanadate species like VO43- and V2O74- condense to form larger polyanions. The decavanadate ion is a prominent species in this pH range. Further acidification can lead to the formation of other polyoxovanadates or vanadium oxides.

The decavanadate anion can exist as various salts, for example, sodium decavanadate (Na6V10O28) or potassium decavanadate (K6V10O28). These salts are often crystalline solids and their solubility depends on the counterion. Decavanadates exhibit interesting chemical and physical properties due to the presence of vanadium in mixed oxidation states and their complex structures. They have been studied for potential applications in areas such as catalysis, electrochemistry, and materials science, though many of these applications are still in the research phase. The rich coordination chemistry and redox activity of vanadium contribute to the ongoing interest in decavanadates.