Reactions of boron cluster anions: implication of site-specific chemical neutralization pathways

Boron cluster anions were studied in a fast-flow tube reaction apparatus. The clusters were reacted with methyl iodide, and based on comparisons with aluminum clusters, it is suggested that we have observed the formation of neutral BnCH3 clusters. While isotopic peak broadening and mass coincidences prohibit quantitative conclusions, analogies with previous experiments involving aluminum clusters allow us to speculate as to the nature of the neutralization process in these reactions. It is believed that the type of site-specific reactions implied here may correspond directly to the reactions observed with aluminum clusters.