500ml RBF 9g NiCl2·6H2O was dissolved in 160g 20% NH3, 30g Cyclohexanone was added with Mag. stirring followed by 50ml 95% EtOH to aid dissolution.

20g of Zn powder was added with vigorous stirring, Temp. rose to 25°C (ambient Temp. 19°C) with evolution of H2.