The IR spectrum recorded of a genuine sample of 1 is shown in Figure ; comparison with the IR spectrum reported by El-Gendy shows that the material described is not 1, similarly the reported X-ray powder diffraction does not fit that calculated for 1 (Fig. ). Meanwhile the colour described is not consistent with the formation of 1 + . It could conceivably be argued that impure 1 + is produced and this accounts for the incorrect colour. Indeed, El-Gendy now suggests a mixture of mono and 1,1'-dinitroferrocene is instead produced, leading to multiple reduction products. It should be noted in this regard that 1,1'-dinitroferrocene is currently not known. He also stated: "Our focus was not directed toward isolating and characterizing the pure compound's structure." We suggest that when claiming extraordinary properties of a material, isolating and fully characterising that material is essential.