[Pd3Sn8Bi6]4-: a 14-vertex Sn/Bi cluster embedding a Pd3 triangle.

The endohedral cluster anion Pd(3)Sn(8)Bi(6) crystallizes as its K([2.2.2]crypt)(+) salt 1 upon reaction of K([2.2.2]crypt)[Sn(2)Bi(2)]·en and Pd(dppe)(2) in 1,2-diaminoethane (en)/toluene and incorporates a complete Pd(3) triangular cluster within a medium-size 14-vertex cage of Sn and Bi atoms. 1 was characterized by a combination of single crystal diffraction, ESI mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and magnetic measurements. According to quantum chemical investigations, the Pd(3) triangle interacts only weakly with the Sn/Bi cluster shell despite the relatively small cavity inside the cage.