The 3,5-dimethyl-4-nitropyrazole ligand in the construction of supramolecular networks of silver(I) complexes

Three new ionic silver complexes based on the 3,5-dimethyl-4-nitropyrazole ligand (Hpz^NO₂) and 1:2 or 1:3 (Ag:Hpz^NO₂) stoichiometries, [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₂][BF₄], [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₃][SbF₆] and [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₃][PO₂F₂]·Hpz^NO₂ have been prepared and structurally characterised. The linear or trigonal metallic coordination environment, the NO₂ groups on the pyrazole ligand as well as the presence of counteranions of the type as , or (the latter one evolving to ) were strategically selected to produce molecular assemblies established on the basis of hydrogen-bonds (N-H?X) and π?π or coordinative interactions involving the NO₂ group. The complex [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₂][BF₄] exhibited polymeric N-H?F hydrogen-bonded chains which were assembled in a 3D network by weaker coordinative Ag?O(NO₂) and π(NO₂)?π(NO₂) interactions. In the complex [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₃][SbF₆], consistent with the three-coordinated molecular environment, the interactions were extended to give rise an open 3D cationic sub-network in which the counteranions were encapsulated. By contrast, in the related complex [Ag(Hpz^NO₂)₃][PO₂F₂]·Hpz^NO₂ the presence of a fourth non-coordinated pyrazole Hpz^NO₂ avoided the formation of a 3D network giving rise to a double-chained 1D structure.