Cadmium-113 NMR studies on homoleptic complexes containing thioether ligands: the crystal structures of [Cd([12]aneS4)2](ClO4)2, [Cd([18]aneS4N2)](PF6)2 and [Cd([9]aneS3)2](PF6)2

We report the measurement of 113Cd NMR chemical shift data for homoleptic thioether and related aza and mixed aza/thiacrown complexes. In a series of Cd(II) complexes containing trithioether to hexathioether ligands, we observe solution 113Cd NMR chemical shifts in the range of 225 to 731 ppm. Upfield chemical shifts in these NMR spectra are seen whenever: (a) the number of thioether sulfur donors in the complex is decreased, (b) a thioether sulfur donor is replaced by a secondary nitrogen donor, or (c) the size of the macrocycle ring increases without a change in the nature or number of the donor atoms. Changes in the identity of non-coordinating anions such as perchlorate or hexafluorophosphate have little effect upon the 113Cd NMR chemical shift in solution. We report the X-ray structure of the complex [Cd([12]aneS4)2](ClO4)2 ([12]aneS4 = 1,4,7,10-tetrathiacyclododecane) (1) which shows the first example of octakis(thioether) coordination of a metal ion, forming an unusual eight-coordinate square antiprismatic structure. We report the X-ray structure of the complex [Cd([9]aneS3)2](PF6)2 ([9]aneS3 = 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane) (3a) which shows hexakis(thioether) coordination to form a distorted octahedral structure. We have also prepared and characterized the Cd(II) complex of a mixed azathiacrown, [Cd([18]aneS4N2)](PF6)2 ([18]aneS4N2 = 1,4,10,13-tetrathia-7,16-diazacyclooctadecane) (6). Its X-ray structure shows a distorted octahedral S4N2 environment around the Cd(II) with the ligand coordinated in the rac fashion. We observe a solvent- and temperature-dependent 14N-1H coupling in the 1H NMR spectrum of the complex which is not present in analogous complexes with this ligand.     

Physical parameters and electron-transfer kinetics of the copper(II/I) complex with the macrocyclic sexadentate ligand [18]aneS6

The electron-transfer kinetics of the complex formed by copper(II/I) with the sexadentate macrocyclic ligand 1,4,7,10,13,16-hexathiacyclooctadecane ([18]aneS6) have been measured in acetonitrile with a series of three oxidizing agents and three reducing agents. These studies have been supplemented by determinations of the redox potential and the stability constants of the Cu(I)- and Cu(II)([18]aneS6) complexes in both acetonitrile and aqueous solution. The Marcus cross relationship has been applied to the cross-reaction rate constants for the six reactions studied to resolve the electron self-exchange rate constant for the Cu(II/I)([18]aneS6) complex. An average value of k11 = 3 x 10(3) M(-1) s(-1) was obtained at 25 degrees C, mu = 0.10 M in acetonitrile. This value is approximately 2 orders of magnitude smaller than the values reported previously for the corresponding Cu(II/I) complexes with the quadridentate and quinquedentate homoleptic homologues having all ethylene bridges, namely, 1,4,7,10-tetrathiacyclododecane ([12]aneS4) and 1,4,7,10,13-pentathiacyclopentadecane ([15]aneS5). This significant difference in reactivity is attributed to the greater rearrangement in the geometry of the inner-coordination sphere that accompanies electron transfer in the Cu(II/I)([18]aneS6) system, wherein two Cu-S bonds are ruptured upon reduction. In contrast to other Cu(II/I) complexes with macrocyclic polythiaethers that have self-exchange rate constants within the same range, no evidence for conformationally gated electron transfer was observed, even in the case of the most rapid oxidation reaction studied.     

Crystallographic, electrochemical, and electronic structure studies of the mononuclear complexes of Au(I)/(II)/(III) with [9]aneS2O ([9]aneS2O = 1-oxa-4,7-dithiacyclononane)

The mononuclear macrocyclic complexes [Au(I)([9]aneS2O)2]BF4 x MeCN 1a, [Au(II)([9]aneS2O)2](BF4)2 x 2 MeCN 2a, and [Au(III)([9]aneS2O)2](ClO4)6(H5O2)(H3O)2 3 ([9]aneS2O = 1-oxa-4,7-dithiacyclononane) have been prepared and structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray crystallography. The oxidation of [Au([9]aneS2O)2](+) to [Au([9]aneS2O)2](2+) involves a significant reorganization of the co-ordination sphere from a distorted tetrahedral geometry in [Au([9]aneS2O)2](+) [Au-S 2.3363(12), 2.3877(12), 2.6630(11), 2.7597(13) A] to a distorted square-planar co-ordination geometry in [Au([9]aneS2O)2](2+). The O-donors in [Au([9]aneS2O)2](2+) occupy the axial positions about the Au(II) center [Au...O = 2.718(2) A] with the S-donors occupying the equatorial plane [Au-S 2.428(8) and 2.484(8) A]. [Au([9]aneS2O)2](3+) shows a co-ordination sphere similar to that of [Au([9]aneS2O)2](2+) but with significantly shorter axial Au...O interactions [2.688(2) A] and equatorial Au-S bond lengths [2.340(4) and 2.355(6) A]. The cyclic voltammogram of 1 in MeCN (0.2 M NBu4PF6, 253 K) at a scan rate of 100 mV s(-1) shows an oxidation process at E(p)(a) = +0.74 V and a reduction process at E(p)(c) = +0.41 V versus Fc(+)/Fc assigned to the two-electron Au(III/I) couple and a second reduction process at E(p)(c) = +0.19 V assigned to the Au(I/0) couple. This electrochemical assignment is confirmed by coulometric and UV-vis spectroelectrochemical measurements. Multifrequency EPR studies of the mononuclear Au(II) complex [Au([9]aneS2O)2](2+) in a fluid solution at X-band and as frozen solutions at L-, S-, X-, K-, and Q-band reveal g(iso) = 2.0182 and A(iso) = -44 x 10(-4) cm(-1); g(xx) = 2.010, g(yy) = 2.006, g(zz) = 2.037; A(xx) = -47 x 10(-4) cm(-1), A(yy) = -47 x 10(-4) cm(-1), A(zz) = -47 x 10(-4) cm(-1); P(xx) = -18 x 10(-4) cm(-1), P(yy) = -10 x 10(-4) cm(-1), and P(zz) = 28 x 10(-4) cm(-1). DFT calculations predict a singly occupied molecular orbital (SOMO) with 27.2% Au 5d(xy) character, consistent with the upper limit derived from the uncertainties in the (197)Au hyperfine parameters. Comparison with [Au([9]aneS3)2](2+) reveals that the nuclear quadrupole parameters, P(ii) (i = x, y, z) are very sensitive to the nature of the Au(II) co-ordination sphere in these macrocyclic complexes. The observed geometries and bond lengths for the cations [Au([9]aneS2O)2](+/2+/3+) reflect the preferred stereochemistries of d(10), d(9), and d(8) metal ions, respectively, with the higher oxidation state centers being generated at higher anodic potentials compared to the related complexes [Au([9]aneS3)2](+/2+/3+).     

Structure and properties of Dinuclear [RuII([n]aneS4)] complexes of 3,6-Bis(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine

The synthesis of dinuclear [Ru(II)([n]aneS(4))] (where n = 12, 14) complexes of the bridging ligand 3,6-bis(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine are reported. The X-ray structures of both of the new complexes are compared to a newly obtained structure for a dinuclear [Ru(II)([9]aneS(3))]-based analogue, whose synthesis has previously been reported. A comparison of the electrochemistry of the three complexes reveals that the first oxidation of the [Ru(II)([n]aneS(4))]-based systems is a ligand-based couple, indicating that the formation of the radical anion form of the bridging ligand is stabilized by metal center coordination. Spectroelectrochemistry studies on the mixed-valence form of the new complexes suggest that they are Robin and Day Class II systems. The electrochemical and electronic properties of these complexes is rationalized by a consideration of the pi-bonding properties of thiacrown ligands.     

Redox non-innocence of thioether crowns: elucidation of the electronic structure of the mononuclear Pd(III) complexes [Pd([9]aneS3)2]3+ and [Pd([18]aneS6)]3+

The Pd(II) complexes [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](PF(6))(2)·2MeCN (1) ([9]aneS(3) = 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](PF(6))(2) (2) ([18]aneS(6) = 1,4,7,10,13,16-hexathiacyclooctadecane) can be oxidized electrochemically or chemically oxidized with 70% HClO(4) to [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+), respectively. These centers have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and by UV/vis and multifrequency electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopies. The single crystal X-ray structures of [Pd(III)([9]aneS(3))(2)](ClO(4))(6)·(H(3)O)(3)·(H(2)O)(4) (3) at 150 K and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](ClO(4))(6)·(H(5)O(2))(3) (4) at 90 K reveal distorted octahedral geometries with Pd-S distances of 2.3695(8), 2.3692(8), 2.5356(9) and 2.3490(6), 2.3454(5), 2.5474(6) ?, respectively, consistent with Jahn-Teller distortion at a low-spin d(7) Pd(III) center. The Pd(II) compound [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](PF(6))(2) shows a one-electron oxidation process in MeCN (0.2 M NBu(4)PF(6), 293 K) at E(1/2) = +0.57 V vs. Fc(+)/Fc assigned to a formal Pd(III)/Pd(II) couple. Multifrequency (Q-, X-, S-, and L-band) EPR spectroscopic analysis of [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+) gives g(iso) = 2.024, |A(iso(Pd))| = 18.9 × 10(-4) cm(-1); g(xx) = 2.046, g(yy) = 2.041, g(zz) = 2.004;?|A(xx(Pd))| = 24 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(yy(Pd))| = 22 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(zz(Pd))| = 14 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(xx(H))| = 4 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(yy(H))| = 5 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(zz(H))| = 5.5 × 10(-4) cm(-1) for [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+), and g(iso) = 2.015, |A(iso(Pd))| = 18.8× 10(-4) cm(-1); g(xx) = 2.048 g(yy) = 2.036, g(zz) = 1.998; |a(xx(H))| = 5, |a(yy(H))| = 5, |a(zz(H))| = 6 × 10(-4) cm(-1); |A(xx(Pd))| = 23× 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(yy(Pd))| = 22 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(zz(Pd))| = 4 × 10(-4) cm(-1) for [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+). Both [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+) exhibit five-line superhyperfine splitting in the g(zz) region in their frozen solution EPR spectra. Double resonance spectroscopic measurements, supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, permit assignment of this superhyperfine to through-bond coupling involving four (1)H centers of the macrocyclic ring. Analysis of the spin Hamiltonian parameters for the singly occupied molecular orbital (SOMO) in these complexes gives about 20.4% and 25% Pd character in [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+), respectively, consistent with the compositions calculated from scalar relativistic DFT calculations.     

Effect of constrained donor atom orientations on the stabilities, complexation kinetics, redox potentials, and structures of macrocyclic polythiaether Complexes. Copper(II) complexes with cyclopentanediyl derivatives of [14]aneS4 in 80% methanol

The two ethylene bridges in the macrocyclic tetrathiaether 1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane ([14]aneS(4)) have been systematically replaced by cis- or trans-1,2-cyclopentane to generate a series of new ligands that exhibit differing preferences for the orientation of the sulfur donor atoms while maintaining constant inductive effects. The resulting five dicyclopentanediyl derivatives, along with two previously synthesized monocyclopentanediyl analogues, have been complexed with Cu(II), and their stability constants, formation and dissociation rate constants, and redox potentials have been determined in 80% methanol/20% water (by weight). The crystal structures of the Cu(II) complexes with the five dicyclopentanediyl-[14]aneS(4) diastereomers as well as the structures for a representative Cu(I) complex and one of the free ligands have also been determined. The properties of these complexes are compared to previous data obtained for the corresponding cyclohexanediyl derivatives in an attempt to shed additional light on the influence of sterically constraining substituents upon the properties of macrocyclic ligand complexes.     

Effect of conformational constraints on gated electron-transfer kinetics. 3. Copper(II/I) complexes with cis- and trans-cyclopentanediyl-1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane

Previous kinetic and electrochemical studies of copper complexes with macrocyclic tetrathiaethers-such as 1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane ([14]aneS4)-have indicated that electron transfer and the accompanying conformational change occur sequentially to give rise to a dual-pathway mechanism. Under appropriate conditions, the conformational change itself may become rate-limiting, a condition known as "gated" electron transfer. We have recently hypothesized that the controlling conformational change involves inversion of two donor atoms, which suggests that "gated" behavior should be affected by appropriate steric constraints. In the current work, two derivatives of [14]aneS4 have been synthesized in which one of the ethylene bridges has been replaced by either cis- or trans-1,2-cyclopentane. The resulting copper systems have been characterized in terms of their Cu(II/I)L potentials, the stabilities of their oxidized and reduced complexes, and their crystal structures. The electron self-exchange rate constants have been determined both by NMR line-broadening and by kinetic measurements of their rates of reduction and oxidation with six or seven counter reagents. All studies have been carried out at 25 degrees C, mu = 0.10 M (NaClO4 and/or Cu(ClO4)2), in aqueous solution. Both Cu(II/I) systems show evidence of a dual-pathway mechanism, and the electron self-exchange rate constants representative of both mechanistic pathways have been determined. The first-order rate constant for gated behavior has also been resolved for the Cu(I)(trans-cyclopentane-[14]aneS4) complex, but only a limiting value can be established for the corresponding cis-cyclopentane system. The rate constants for both systems investigated in this work are compared to values previously determined for the Cu(II/I) systems with the parent [14]aneS4 macrocycle and its derivatives involving phenylene and cis- or trans-cyclohexane substituents. The results are discussed in terms of the influence of the fused rings on the probable conformational changes accompanying the electron-transfer process.     

Electronic structure of the mononuclear Ag(ii) complex [Ag([18]aneS(4)O(2))](2+) ([18]aneS(4)O(2) = 1,10-dioxa-4,7,13,16-tetrathiacyclooctadecane)

The structure of [Ag([18]aneS(4)O(2))](PF(6))(2).CH(2)Cl(2) shows a highly unusual and unexpected boat conformation for the macrocycle with square-planar S(4)-coordination at the formal Ag(ii) centre and the two ether O-centres lying on the same side of the S(4) plane; the SOMO in [Ag([18]aneS(4)O(2))](2+) possesses 22.7% Ag 4d(xy) character, as determined by multi-frequency EPR spectroscopy and supported by DFT calculations.     

Structural and EPR studies on single-crystal and polycrystalline samples of copper(II) and cobalt(II) complexes with N2S2-based macrocyclic ligands

The properties of Cu(II) and Co(II) complexes with oxygen- or nitrogen-containing macrocycles have been extensively studied; however, less attention has been paid to the study of complexes containing sulfur atoms in the first coordination sphere. Herein we present the interaction between these two metal ions and two macrocyclic ligands with N2S2 donor sets. Cu(II) and Co(II) complexes with the pyridine-containing 14-membered macrocycles 3,11-dithia-7,17-diazabicyclo[11.3.1]heptadeca-1(17),13,15-triene (L) and 7-(9-anthracenylmethyl)-3,11-dithia-7,17-diazabicyclo[11.3.1]heptadeca-1(17),13,15-triene (L1) have been synthesized. The X-ray structural analysis of {[Co(ClO4)(H2O)(L)][Co(H2O)2(L)]}(ClO4)3 shows two different metal sites in octahedral coordination. The EPR spectra of powdered samples of this compound are typical of distorted six-coordinated Co(II) ions in a high-spin (S=3/2) configuration, with the ground state being S=1/2 (g1=5.20, g2=3.20, g3=1.95). The EPR spectrum of [Cu(ClO4)(L)](ClO4) was simulated assuming an axial g tensor (g1=g2=2.043, g3=2.145), while that of [Cu(ClO4)(L1)](ClO4) slightly differs from an axial symmetry (g1=2.025, g2=2.060, g3=2.155). These results are compatible with a Cu(II) ion in square-pyramidal coordination with N2S2 as basal ligands. Single-crystal EPR experiment performed on [Cu(ClO4)(L1)](ClO4) allowed determining the eigenvalues of the molecular g tensor associated with the copper site, as well as the two possible orientations for the tensor. On the basis of symmetry arguments, an assignment in which the eigenvectors are nearly along the Cu(II)-ligand bonds is chosen.     

Controlling substitution chemistry in ruthenium(II) systems. Synthesis of heteroleptic complexes incorporating the [Ru([9]aneS3)]2+ metal center

The complex [Ru(py)3([9]aneS3)][PF6]2, 1 (py = pyridine), has proved to be a suitable starting material for the synthesis of heteroleptic Ru(II) complexes. By exploiting unfavorable steric interactions between 2-H and 6-H hydrogens of coordinated pyridyl ligands, we have synthesized half-sandwich complexes incorporating the thiocrown [9]aneS3 and a variety of facially coordinated N-donor ligands. Such complexes are easily prepared: Stirring 1 at room temperature in the presence of a suitable nitrile ligand leads to the exclusive substitution of one py ligand to produce complexes such as [([9]aneS3)Ru(py)2(NCMe)][PF6]2, 2. However, if the same reaction is carried out at higher temperatures, two py ligands are substituted, leading to complexes such as [([9]aneS3)Ru(py)(NCMe)2][PF6]2, 3. An alternative approach to such heteroleptic species has also been developed which exploits the restricted ability of thioethers to neutralize positive charges through sigma-donation. This phenomenon allows the synthesis of heteroleptic complexes in a two-step procedure via monocationic species. By variation of the donor/acceptor properties of ligands incorporated into the [Ru([9]aneS3)]2+ metal center, it is possible to tune the Ru(III)/Ru(II) redox couple over a range of > 700 mV. The solid-state structures of 1-3 were confirmed by X-ray crystallography studies. Crystal data: C22H30F12N4O2P2RuS3 (1.CH3NO2), monoclinic, Cc, a = 23.267(5) A, b = 11.5457(18) A, c = 26.192(5) A, alpha = 90 degrees, beta = 114.836(10) degrees, gamma = 90 degrees, Z = 8; C18H25F12N3P2RuS3 (2), triclinic, P1, a = 11.3958(19) A, b = 11.4280(19) A, c = 11.930(2) A, alpha = 100.518(3) degrees, beta = 100.542(3) degrees, gamma = 112,493(3) degrees, Z = 2; C15H23F12N3P2RuS3 (3), orthorhombic, Pna2(1)), a = 14.748(5) A, b = 18.037(18) A, c = 10.341(5) A, alpha = 90 degrees, beta = 90 degrees, gamma = 90 degrees, Z = 4.     

Supramolecular assemblies of germanium(II) halides with O-, S- and Se-donor macrocycles - the effects of donor atom type upon structure

Reaction of [GeCl(2)(dioxane)] with [18]aneS(6) (1,4,7,10,13,16-hexathiacyclooctadecane) gives the neutral [GeCl(2)([18]aneS(6))] which forms a supramolecular sheet network involving exocyclic coordination, with the macrocycles bridging Ge atoms which are in a pseudo-trigonal bipyramidal environment from two Cl and two S atoms (saw-horse), with one lone pair assumed to occupy the remaining equatorial void. Conversely, using the mixed S/O macrocycles [18]aneS(3)O(3) (1,4,7-trithia-10,13,16-trioxacyclooctadecane) and [15]aneS(2)O(3) (1,4-dithia-7,10,13-trioxacyclopentadecane) (L) leads to the monocationic pentagonal pyramidal [GeCl(L)](+) whose structures show endocyclic Ge coordination, and displacement of one Cl. The Ge-S and Ge-O bond lengths are surprisingly disparate in these two complexes, and in the former the coordinated Cl is axial, while in the latter it occupies the pentagonal plane (with an S atom axial). Cyclic selenoethers form one-dimensional or two-dimensional supramolecular assemblies with Ge(ii) halides, including [GeCl(2)([8]aneSe(2))] ([8]aneSe(2) = 1,5-diselenacyclooctane), [(GeCl(2))(2)([16]aneSe(4))] ([16]aneSe(4) = 1,5,9,13-tetraselenacyclohexadecane), [GeBr(2)([16]aneSe(4))] and [(GeI(2))(2)([16]aneSe(4))]·GeI(4)- these represent the first germanium species with selenoether ligation. Structural studies on each of these show exocyclic GeX(2) coordination, giving networks based upon Se(2)X(2) coordination at Ge(ii) with a distorted pseudo-trigonal bipyramidal environment in which the Ge-based lone pair is assumed to occupy the vacant equatorial vertex. Further weak GeX contacts are also evident in some cases. The weak, secondary GeS/Se and GeX interactions that pervade these systems may be regarded as a further type of supramolecular interaction allowing assembly of new network structures, and the long II contacts evident between the GeI(2) and GeI(4) units in [(GeI(2))(2)([16]aneSe(4))]·GeI(4) probably provide a small thermodynamic contribution leading to co-crystallisation of ordered GeI(4) molecules within the network.     

Cyclometallated Pt(II) and Pd(II) complexes with a trithiacrown ligand

We report the synthesis and full characterization for a series of cyclometallated complexes of Pt(II) and Pd(II) incorporating the fluxional trithiacrown ligand 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane ([9]aneS3). Reaction of [M(C insertion mark N)(micro-Cl)]2 (M = Pt(II), Pd(II); C insertion mark N = 2-phenylpyridinate (ppy) or 7,8-benzoquinolinate (bzq)) with [9]aneS3 followed by metathesis with NH4PF6 yields [M(C insertion mark N)([9]aneS3)](PF6). The complexes [M(C insertion mark P)([9]aneS3)](PF6) (M = Pt(II), Pd(II); Cinsertion markP = [CH2C6H4P(o-tolyl)2-C,P]-) were synthesized from their respective [Pt(C insertion mark P)(micro-Cl)]2 or [Pd(C insertion mark P)(micro-O2CCH3)]2 (C insertion mark P) starting materials. All five new complexes have been fully characterized by multinuclear NMR, IR and UV-Vis spectroscopies in addition to elemental analysis, cyclic voltammetry, and single-crystal structural determinations. As expected, the coordinated [9]aneS3 ligand shows fluxional behavior in its NMR spectra, resulting in a single 13C NMR resonance despite the asymmetric coordination environment of the cyclometallating ligand. Electrochemical studies reveal irreversible one-electron metal-centered oxidations for all Pt(II) complexes, but unusual two-electron reversible oxidations for the Pd(II) complexes of ppy and bzq. The X-ray crystal structures of each complex indicate an axial M-S interaction formed by the endodentate conformation of the [9]aneS3 ligand. The structure of [Pd(bzq)([9]aneS3)](PF6) exhibits disorder in the [9]aneS3 conformation indicating a rare exodentate conformation as the major contributor in the solid-state structure. DFT calculations on [Pt([9]aneS3)(ppy)](PF6) and [Pd([9]aneS3)(ppy)](PF6) indicate the HOMO for both complexes is primarily dz2 in character with a significant contribution from the phenyl ring of the ppy ligand and p orbital of the axial sulfur donor. In contrast, the calculated LUMO is primarily ppy pi* in character for [Pt([9]aneS3)(ppy)](PF6), but dx2-y2 in character for [Pd([9]aneS3)(ppy)](PF6).     

Self-assembly of cuII and niII [2 x 2] grid complexes and a binuclear CuII complex with a new semiflexible substituted pyrazine ligand: multiple anion encapsulation and magnetic properties

With the new substituted pyrazine ligand pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid bis[(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)amide], H(2)L, a binuclear complex [Cu(2)(LH)(Cl(3))(H(2)O)].H(2)O (1) and two [2 x 2]G grid complexes, [[Cu(4)(LH)(4)](ClO(4))(4)].5CH(3)OH.4H(2)O (2) and [[Ni(4)(LH)(4)]Cl(4)].5CH(3)CN.13H(2)O (3), have been synthesized and characterized spectroscopically and crystallographically. The ligand H(2)L crystallized in the triclinic space group P1, with a = 4.9882(7) A, b = 12.079(2) A, c = 14.454(2) A, alpha = 107.08(2) degrees, beta = 98.61(2) degrees, gamma = 97.54(2) degrees, V = 808.8(2) A(3), Z = 2, R1 = 0.0747, and R(w) = 0.1829 for 1319 observed reflections [I > 2 sigma(I)]. The molecule is L-shaped with a strong intramolecular bifurcated hydrogen bond in half of the molecule. In the crystal the molecules are linked by an intermolecular hydrogen bond to form a 1D polymer. The binuclear complex [Cu(2)(LH)(Cl(3))(H(2)O)].H(2)O (1) crystallized in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/a, with a = 8.6859(7) A, b = 28.060(2) A, c = 9.5334(9) A, beta = 107.89(1) degrees, V = 2211.2(3) A(3), Z = 4, R1 = 0.039, and R(w) = 0.097 for 1408 observed reflections [I > 2 sigma(I)]. There are two independent copper atoms both having square pyramidal geometry. Both coordinate to a pyrazine, a pyridine, and an amide N atom. Two chlorines complete the coordination sphere of one of the copper atoms, while one chlorine atom and a water molecule complete the coordination sphere of the other. The copper(II) [2 x 2] grid complex [[Cu(4)(LH)(4)](ClO(4))(4)].5CH(3)OH.4H(2)O (2) crystallized in the triclinic space group P1, with a = 17.1515(14) A, b = 17.7507(13) A, c = 19.3333(15) A, alpha = 67.34(1) degrees, beta = 69.79(1) degrees, gamma = 71.50(1) degrees, V = 4980.3(7) A(3), Z = 2, R1 = 0.083, and R(w) = 0.207 for 5532 observed reflections [I > 2 sigma(I)]. The four Cu(II) atoms are octahedrally coordinated by two pyrazine, two pyridine, and two amide N atoms and occupy the corners of a [2 x 2] grid with edge lengths, Cu...Cu, varying from 7.01 to 7.39 A. The nickel(II) [2 x 2] grid complex [[Ni(4)(LH)(4)]Cl(4)].5CH(3)CN.13H(2)O (3) crystallized in the monoclinic space group C2/c, with a = 16.3388(10) A, b = 29.754(2) A, c = 20.857(1) A, beta = 101.845(1) degrees, V = 9923.6(12) A(3), Z = 4, R1 = 0.050, and wR2 = 0.101 for 3391 observed reflections [I > 2 sigma(I)]. Here the complex possesses C(2) symmetry and again each metal atom is octahedrally coordinated to two pyrazine, two pyridine, and two amide N atoms. They occupy the corners of a [2 x 2] grid with an average edge length, Ni.Ni, of 6.97 A. Of the four anions (ClO(4)(-)'s in 2 and Cl(-)'s in 3) required to equilibrate the charges in the grid complexes, two are encapsulated, one above and one below the plane of the four metal atoms. The remaining two anions are located between the "wings" of the ligands. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that the binuclear complex 1 is antiferromagnetic, with a J value of -15.07 cm(-1). This is larger than the J values found for the Cu(II) (2) and Ni(II) (3) grid complexes, which were -5.87 and -2.64 cm(-1), respectively. DFT calculations have been carried out to explain the difference in the J values found for complexes 1 and 2.     

Electrochemical properties of dinuclear [Ru([n]aneS4)] complexes of 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine

The syntheses of three new dinuclear [Ru([n]aneS(4))] complexes, where n = 12, 14, 16, bridged by the ligand 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine, (dpp) are reported. The absorption spectra of the complexes show changes in the energy of the MLCT bands within the series, indicating that the thiacrown ligands stabilise the Ru(II) oxidation state to different degrees. Electrochemical studies are also consistent with these observations, and reveal that the pi-acceptor properties of [n]aneS(4) ligands lead to metal based oxidation couples occurring at potentials that are more anodic than those observed in the analogous dinuclear [Ru(bpy)(2)](2+) complex. Despite the back-bonding properties of the thiacrown ligands leading to a reduction in ligand-bridge mediated metal-metal coupling, electrochemical interactions between the metals are still considerable.     

A rational design for imidazolate-bridged linear trinuclear compounds from mononuclear copper(II) complexes with 2-[((imidazol-2-ylmethylidene)amino)ethyl]pyridine (HL): syntheses, structures, and magnetic properties of [Cu(L)(hfac)M(hfac)2Cu(hfac)(L)] (M = ZnII, CuII, MnII)

Two mononuclear copper(II) complexes with the unsymmetrical tridentate ligand 2-[((imidazol-2-ylmethylidene)amino)ethyl]pyridine (HL), [Cu(HL)(H2O)](ClO4)2.2H2O (1) and [Cu(HL)Cl2] (2), have been prepared and characterized. The X-ray analysis of 2 revealed that the copper(II) ion assumes a pentacoordinated square pyramidal geometry with an N3Cl2 donor set. When 1 and 2 are treated with an equimolecular amount of potassium hydroxide, the deprotonation of the imidazole moiety promotes a self-assembled process, by coordination of the imidazolate nitrogen atom to a Cu(II) center of an adjacent unit, leading to the polynuclear complexes [[Cu(L)(H2O)](ClO4)]n (3) and [[Cu(L)Cl].2H2O]n (4). Variable-temperature magnetic data are well reproduced for one-dimensional infinite regular chain systems with J = -60.3 cm(-1) and g = 2.02 for 3 and J = -69.5 cm(-1) and g = 2.06, for 4. When 1 is used as a "ligand complex" for [M(hfac)2] (M = Cu(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), Zn(II)) in a basic medium, only the imidazolate-bridged trinuclear complexes [Cu(L)(hfac)M(hfac)2Cu(hfac)(L)] (M = Zn(II), Cu(II)) (5, 6) can be isolated. Nevertheless, the analogous complex containing Mn(II) as the central metal (7) can be prepared from the precursor [Cu(HL)Cl2] (2). All the trinuclear complexes are isostructural. The structures of 5 and 6 have been solved by X-ray crystallographic methods and consist of well-isolated molecules with Ci symmetry, the center of symmetry being located at the central metal. Thus, the copper(II) fragments are in trans positions, leading to a linear conformation. The magnetic susceptibility data (2-300 K), which reveal the occurrence of antiferromagnetic interactions between copper(II) ions and the central metal, were quantitatively analyzed for symmetrical three-spin systems to give the coupling parameters JCuCu = -37.2 and JCuMn = -3.7 cm(-1) with D = +/-0.4 cm(-1) for 6 and 7, respectively. These magnetic behaviors are compared with those for analogous systems and discussed on the basis of a localized-orbital model of exchange interactions.     

Aggregation of [Cu(II)4] building blocks into [Cu(II)8] clusters or a [Cu(II)4]infinity chain through subtle chemical control

Coordination complexes of the ligand H3L [1,3-bis(3-oxo-3-phenylpropionyl)-2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzene] with Cu(II) are reported. Clusters showing various nuclearities or modes of supramolecular organization have been prepared by slightly changing the reaction conditions and have been crystallographically characterized. The reaction of H3L with one equivalent of Cu(OAc)2 in DMF yields the dinuclear complex [Cu2(HL)2(dmf)2] (1). Reaction in MeOH of H3L with an increased amount of metal, in the form of Cu(NO3)2, and excess strong base (nBu4NOH) affords the cluster [Cu8(L)2(OMe)8(NO3)2] (2). Complex 2 is a dimer of two linear [Cu4] arrays bridged by methoxide ligands, where the polynucleating ligand is fully deprotonated. The [Cu4]2 clusters are linked to each other by NO3- bridges to form one-dimensional coordination polymers. The link between [Cu8] units and their relative spatial positioning can be modified by changing the anion of the Cu(II) salt, as demonstrated by the synthesis of the cluster polymers [Cu8(L)2(OMe)8Cl2] (3) and [Cu8(L)(OMe)7.86Br2.14] (4), where only NO3- has been replaced by Cl- or Br-, respectively. Similarly, when ClO4- is used, compound [Cu8(L)2(OMe)8(ClO4)2(MeOH)4] (5) can be isolated. It contains independent [Cu8] units. A slight change in the stoichiometry of the reaction leading to 2 affords the related complex catena-[Cu4(L)(OMe)3(NO3)2(H2O)0.36] (6). This polymer contains essentially the same [Cu4] moiety as 2, albeit organized in a completely different arrangement. Each [Cu4] unit in 6 is linked by OMe- ligands to two such equivalent groups to form an infinite chain. Magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal weak antiferromagnetic exchange between Cu(II) centers in 1 (J = -0.73 cm(-1)) and strong antiferromagnetic coupling within [Cu4] chains in 2, 5, and 6 (most negative J values of -113.8 and -177.3 cm(-1) for 2 and 6, respectively).     

Ruthenium complexes containing 2-(2-nitrosoaryl)pyridine: structural, spectroscopic, and theoretical studies

Ruthenium complexes containing 2-(2-nitrosoaryl)pyridine (ON(^)N) and tetradentate thioether 1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane ([14]aneS4), [Ru(ON(^)N)([14]aneS4)](2+) [ON(^)N = 2-(2-nitrosophenyl)pyridine (2a), 10-nitrosobenzo[h]quinoline (2b), 2-(2-nitroso-4-methylphenyl)pyridine, (2c), 2-(2-nitrosophenyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridine (2d)] and analogues with the 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane ([9]aneS3)/tert-butylisocyanide ligand set, [Ru(ON(^)N)([9]aneS3)(C≡N(t)Bu)](2+) (4a and 4b), have been prepared by insertion of a nitrosonium ion (NO(+)) into the Ru-aryl bond of cyclometalated ruthenium(II) complexes. The molecular structures of the ON(^)N-ligated complexes 2a and 2b reveal that (i) the ON(^)N ligands behave as bidentate chelates via the two N atoms and the bite angles are 86.84(18)-87.83(16)° and (ii) the Ru-N(NO) and N-O distances are 1.942(5)-1.948(4) and 1.235(6)-1.244(5) ?, respectively. The Ru-N(NO) and N-O distances, together with ν(N═O), suggest that the coordinated ON(^)N ligands in this work are neutral moiety (ArNO)(0) rather than monoanionic radical (ArNO)(?-) or dianion (ArNO)(2-) species. The nitrosated complexes 2a-2d show moderately intense absorptions centered at 463-484 nm [ε(max) = (5-6) × 10(3) dm(3) mol(-1) cm(-1)] and a clearly discriminable absorption shoulder around 620 nm (ε(max) = (6-9) × 10(2) dm(3) mol(-1) cm(-1)), which tails up to 800 nm. These visible absorptions are assigned as a mixing of d(Ru) → ON(^)N metal-to-ligand charge-transfer and ON(^)N intraligand transitions on the basis of time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations. The first reduction couples of the nitrosated complexes range from -0.53 to -0.62 V vs Cp(2)Fe(+/0), which are 1.1-1.2 V less negative than that for [Ru(bpy)([14]aneS4)](2+) (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine). Both electrochemical data and DFT calculations suggest that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals of the nitrosated complexes are ON(^)N-centered. Natural population analysis shows that the amount of positive charge on the Ru centers and the [Ru([14]aneS4)] moieties in 2a and 2b is larger than that in [Ru(bpy)([14]aneS4)](2+). According to the results of the structural, spectroscopic, electrochemical, and theoretical investigations, the ON(^)N ligands in this work have considerable π-acidic character and behave as better electron acceptors than bpy.     

Direct evidence for a geometrically constrained "entatic state" effect on copper(II/I) electron-transfer kinetics as manifested in metastable intermediates

The absolute magnitude of an "entatic" (constrained) state effect has never been quantitatively demonstrated. In the current study, we have examined the electron-transfer kinetics for five closely related copper(II/I) complexes formed with all possible diastereomers of [14]aneS(4) (1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane) in which both ethylene bridges have been replaced by cis- or trans-1,2-cyclohexane. The crystal structures of all five Cu(II) complexes and a representative Cu(I) complex have been established by X-ray diffraction. For each complex, the cross-reaction rate constants have been determined with six different oxidants and reductants in aqueous solution at 25 degrees C, mu = 0.10 M. The value of the electron self-exchange rate constant (k(11)) has then been calculated from each cross reaction rate constant using the Marcus cross relation. All five Cu(II/I) systems show evidence of a dual-pathway square scheme mechanism for which the two individual k(11) values have been evaluated. In combination with similar values previously determined for the parent complex, Cu(II/I)([14]aneS(4)), and corresponding complexes with the two related monocyclohexanediyl derivatives, we now have evaluated a total of 16 self-exchange rate constants which span nearly 6 orders of magnitude for these 8 closely related Cu(II/I) systems. Application of the stability constants for the formation of the corresponding 16 metastable intermediates--as previously determined by rapid-scan cyclic voltammetry--makes it possible to calculate the specific electron self-exchange rate constants representing the reaction of each of the strained intermediate species exchanging electrons with their stable redox partners--the first time that calculations of this type have been possible. All but three of these 16 specific self-exchange rate constants fall within--or very close to--the range of 10(5)-10(6) M(-1) s(-1), values which are characteristic of the most labile Cu(II/I) systems previously reported, including the blue copper proteins. The results of the current investigation provide the first unequivocal demonstration of the efficacy of the entatic state concept as applied to Cu(II/I) systems.     

Mononuclear and binuclear copper(I) complexes ligated by bis(3,5-diisopropyl-1-pyrazolyl)methane: insight into the fundamental coordination chemistry of three-coordinate copper(I) complexes with a neutral coligand

By using the neutral bidentate nitrogen-containing ligand, bis(3,5-diisopropyl-1-pyrazolyl)methane (L1' '), the copper(I) complexes [Cu(L1' ')2](CuCl2) (1CuCl2), [Cu(L1' ')2](ClO4) (1ClO4), [Cu(L1' ')]2(ClO4)2 (2ClO4), [Cu(L1' ')]2(BF4)2 (2BF4), [Cu(L1' ')(NCMe)](PF6) (3PF6), [Cu(L1' ')(PPh3)](ClO4) (4ClO4), [Cu(L1' ')(PPh3)](PF6) (4PF6), [{Cu(L1' ')(CO)}2(mu-ClO4)](ClO4) (5ClO4), and the copper(II) complexes [{Cu(L1' ')}2(mu-OH)2(mu-ClO4)2] (6), and [Cu(L1' ')Cl2] (7) were systematically synthesized and fully characterized by X-ray crystallography and by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. In the case of copper(II), ESR spectroscopy was also applied. In comparison with the related neutral tridentate ligand L1', bis-chelated copper(I) complexes and binuclear linear-coordinated copper(I) complexes are easy to obtain with L1' ', like 1CuCl2, 1ClO4, 2ClO4, and 2BF4. Importantly, stronger and bulkier ligands such as acetonitrile (3PF6) and especially triphenylphosphine (4ClO4 and 4PF6) generate three-coordinate structures with a trigonal-planar geometry. Surprisingly, for the smaller ligand carbon monoxide, a mononuclear three-coordinate structure is very unstable, leading to the formation of a binuclear complex (5ClO4) with one bridging perchlorate anion, such that the copper(I) centers are four-coordinate. The same tendency is observed for the copper(II) bis(mu-hydroxo) compounds 6, which is additionally bridged by two perchlorate anions. Both copper(II) complexes 6 and 7 were obtained by molecular O2 oxidation of the corresponding copper(I) complexes. A comparison of the new copper(I) triphenylphosphine complexes 4ClO4 and 4PF6 with corresponding species obtained with the related tridentate ligands L1' and L1 (8ClO4 and 9, respectively) reveals surprisingly small differences in their spectroscopic properties. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to shed light on the differences in bonding in these compounds and the spectral assignments. Finally, the reactivity of the different bis(pyrazolyl)methane complexes obtained here toward PPh3, CO, and O2 is discussed.     

Helical-chain copper(II) complexes and a cyclic tetranuclear copper(II) complex with single syn-anti carboxylate bridges and ferromagnetic exchange interactions

Tridentate Schiff-base carboxylate-containing ligands, derived from the condensation of 2-imidazolecarboxaldehyde with the amino acids beta-alanine (H2L1) and 2-aminobenzoic acid (H2L5) and the condensation of 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde with beta-alanine (HL2), D,L-3-aminobutyric acid (HL3), and 4-aminobutyric acid (HL4), react with copper(II) perchlorate to give rise to the helical-chain complexes [[Cu(mu-HL1)(H2O)](ClO4)]n (1), [[Cu(mu-L2)(H2O)](ClO4).2H2O]n (2), and [[Cu(mu-L3)(H2O)](ClO4).2H2O]n (3), the tetranuclear complex [[Cu(mu-L4)(H2O)](ClO4)]4 (4), and the mononuclear complex [Cu(HL5)(H2O)](ClO4).1/2H2O (5). The reaction of copper(II) chloride with H2L1 leads not to a syn-anti carboxylate-bridged compound but to the chloride-bridged dinuclear complex [Cu(HL1)(mu-Cl)]2 (6). The structures of these complexes have been solved by X-ray crystallography. In complexes 1-4, roughly square-pyramidal copper(II) ions are sequentially bridged by syn-anti carboxylate groups. Copper(II) ions exhibit CuN2O3 coordination environments with the three donor atoms of the ligand and one oxygen atom belonging to the carboxylate group of an adjacent molecule occupying the basal positions and an oxygen atom (from a water molecule in the case of compounds 1-3 and from a perchlorate anion in 4) coordinated in the apical position. Therefore, carboxylate groups are mutually cis oriented and each syn-anti carboxylate group bridges two copper(II) ions in basal-basal positions with Cu...Cu distances ranging from 4.541 A for 4 to 5.186 A for 2. In complex 5, the water molecule occupies an equatorial position in the distorted octahedral environment of the copper(II) ion and the Cu-O carboxylate distances in axial positions are very large (>2.78 A). Therefore, this complex can be considered as mononuclear. Complex 6 exhibits a dinuclear parallel planar structure with Ci symmetry. Copper(II) ions display a square-pyramidal coordination geometry (tau = 0.06) for the N2OCl2 donor set, where the basal coordination sites are occupied by one of the bridging chlorine atoms and the three donor atoms of the tridentate ligand and the apical site is occupied by the remaining bridging chlorine atom. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that complexes 1-4 exhibit weak ferromagnetic interactions whereas a weak antiferromagnetic coupling has been established for 6. The magnetic behavior can be satisfactorily explained on the basis of the structural data for these and related complexes.