Iron-arylimide clusters [Fe(m)()(NAr)(n)Cl(4)](2)(-) (m,n = 2, 2; 3, 4; 4, 4) from a ferric amide precursor: synthesis,characterization, and comparison to Fe-S chemistry

Tetrahedral FeCl[N(SiMe(3))(2)](2)(THF) (2), prepared from FeCl(3) and 2 equiv of Na[N(SiMe(3))(2)] in THF, is a useful ferric starting material for the synthesis of weak-field iron-imide (Fe-NR) clusters. Protonolysis of 2 with aniline yields azobenzene and [Fe(2)(mu-Cl)(3)(THF)(6)](2)[Fe(3)(mu-NPh)(4)Cl(4)] (3), a salt composed of two diferrous monocations and a trinuclear dianion with a formal 2 Fe(III)/1 Fe(IV) oxidation state. Treatment of 2 with LiCl, which gives the adduct [FeCl(2)(N(SiMe(3))(2))(2)](-) (isolated as the [Li(TMEDA)(2)](+) salt), suppresses arylamine oxidation/iron reduction chemistry during protonolysis. Thus, under appropriate conditions, the reaction of 1:1 2/LiCl with arylamine provides a practical route to the following Fe-NR clusters: [Li(2)(THF)(7)][Fe(3)(mu-NPh)(4)Cl(4)] (5a), which contains the same Fe-NR cluster found in 3; [Li(THF)(4)](2)[Fe(3)(mu-N-p-Tol)(4)Cl(4)] (5b); [Li(DME)(3)](2)[Fe(2)(mu-NPh)(2)Cl(4)] (6a); [Li(2)(THF)(7)][Fe(2)(mu-NMes)(2)Cl(4)] (6c). [Li(DME)(3)](2)[Fe(4)(mu(3)-NPh)(4)Cl(4)] (7), a trace product in the synthesis of 5a and 6a, forms readily as the sole Fe-NR complex upon reduction of these lower nuclearity clusters. Products were characterized by X-ray crystallographic analysis, by electronic absorption, (1)H NMR, and M?ssbauer spectroscopies, and by cyclic voltammetry. The structures of the Fe-NR complexes derive from tetrahedral iron centers, edge-fused by imide bridges into linear arrays (5a,b; 6a,c) or the condensed heterocubane geometry (7), and are homologous to fundamental iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cluster motifs. The analogy to Fe-S chemistry also encompasses parallels between Fe-mediated redox transformations of nitrogen and sulfur ligands and reductive core conversions of linear dinuclear and trinuclear clusters to heterocubane species and is reinforced by other recent examples of iron- and cobalt-imide cluster chemistry. The correspondence of nitrogen and sulfur chemistry at iron is intriguing in the context of speculative Fe-mediated mechanisms for biological nitrogen fixation.     

Tuning the electronic structure of octahedral iron complexes [FeL(X)] (L = 1-alkyl-4,7-bis(4-tert-butyl-2-mercaptobenzyl)-1,4,7-triazacyclononane,X = Cl,CH(3)O,CN, NO). The S = 1/2 <==>3/2 Spin equilibrium of [FeL(Pr)(NO)

Two new pentadentate, pendent arm macrocyclic ligands of the type 1-alkyl-4,7-bis(4-tert-butyl-2-mercaptobenzyl)-1,4,7-triazacyclononane where alkyl represents an isopropyl, (L(Pr))(2-), or an ethyl group, (L(Et))(2-), have been synthesized. It is shown that they bind strongly to ferric ions generating six-coordinate species of the type [Fe(L(alk))X]. The ground state of these complexes is governed by the nature of the sixth ligand, X: [Fe(III)(L(Et))Cl] (2) possesses an S = 5/2 ground state as do [Fe(III)(L(Et))(OCH(3))] (3) and [Fe(III)(L(Pr))(OCH(3))] (4). In contrast, the cyano complexes [Fe(III)(L(Et))(CN)] (5) and [Fe(III)(L(Pr))(CN)] (6) are low spin ferric species (S = 1/2). The octahedral [FeNO](7) nitrosyl complex [Fe(L(Pr))(NO)] (7) displays spin equilibrium behavior S = 1/2<==>S = (3)/(2) in the solid state. Complexes [Zn(L(Pr))] (1), 4.CH(3)OH, 5.0.5toluene.CH(2)Cl(2), and 7.2.5CH(2)Cl(2) have been structurally characterized by low-temperature (100 K) X-ray crystallography. All iron complexes have been carefully studied by zero- and applied-field M?ssbauer spectroscopy. In addition, Sellmann's complexes [Fe(pyS(4))(NO)](0/1+) and [Fe(pyS(4))X] (X = PR(3), CO, SR(2)) have been studied by EPR and M?ssbauer spectroscopies and DFT calculations (pyS(4) = 2,6-bis(2-mercaptophenylthiomethyl)pyridine(2-)). It is concluded that the electronic structure of 7 with an S = 1/2 ground state is low spin ferrous (S(Fe) = 0) with a coordinated neutral NO radical (Fe(II)-NO) whereas the S = 3/2 state corresponds to a high spin ferric (S(Fe) = 5/2) antiferromagnetically coupled to an NO(-) anion (S = 1). The S = 1/2<==>S = 3/2 equilibrium is then that of valence tautomers rather than that of a simple high spin<==>low spin crossover.     

Iron(II) complexes with tetradentate bis(aminophenolate) ligands: synthesis and characterization, solution behavior, and reactivity with O(2)

Tetradentate bis(aminophenolate) ligands H(2)salan(X) and H(2)bapen(X) (where X refers to the para-phenolate substituent = H, Me, F, Cl) react with [Fe{N(SiMe(3))(2)}(2)] to form iron(II) complexes, which in the presence of suitable donor ligands L (L = pyridine or THF) can be isolated as the complexes [Fe(salan(X))(L)(2)] and [Fe(bapen(X))(L)(2)]. In the absence of donor ligands, either mononuclear complexes, for example, [Fe(salan(tBu,tBu))], or dinuclear complexes of the type [Fe(salan(X))](2) are obtained. The dynamic coordination behavior in solution of the complexes [Fe(salan(F))(L)(2)] and [Fe(bapen(F))(L)(2)] has been investigated by VT (1)H and (19)F NMR spectroscopy, which has revealed equilibria between isomers with different ligand coordination topologies cis-α, cis-β and trans. Exposure of the iron(II) salan(X) complexes to O(2) results in the formation of oxo-bridged iron(III) complexes of the type [{Fe(salan(X))}(2)(μ-O)] or [{Fe(salan(X))(L)}(2)(μ-O)]. The lack of catalytic activity of the iron(II) salan and bapen complexes in the oxidation of cyclohexane with H(2)O(2) as the oxidant is attributed to the rapid formation of stable and catalytically inactive oxo-bridged iron(III) complexes.     

Metal- and ligand-directed one-pot syntheses,crystal structures,and properties of novel oxo-centered tetra- and hexametallic clusters

Starting from closely related metal-ligand combinations, completely different oligomeric metal clusters are synthesized. Whereas, picoline-tetrazolylamide HL(1) (1) and zinc or nickel acetate afforded [2x2] grids [M(4)(L(1))(8)] (2), slightly different N-(2-methylthiazole-5-yl)-thiazole-2-carboxamide HL(2) (5 a) and nickel acetate yielded the monometallic complex [Ni(L(2))(2)(OH(2))(2)] (6). In contrast, reaction of 5 a with zinc acetate produced the tetrametallic zinc cluster [Zn(4)O(L(2))(4)(OAc)(2)] (7). Even more surprising, when 3-methyl-substituted HL(3) (5 b) instead of 2-methyl-substituted HL(2) (5 a) was allowed to react under identical conditions with zinc acetate, the cluster [Zn(4)O(L(3))(4)Cl(2)] (8) crystallized from dichloromethane. Clusters 7 and 8 are isostructural. As for 7, in 8 two of the edges of the tetrahedron of zinc ions are doubly bridged, two are singly bridged, and the other two are nonbridged. On the other hand, when iron(II) acetate under aerobic conditions was allowed to react with 5 a, the unprecedented complex [[Fe(3)O(L(2))(2)(OAc)(4)](2)O] (9) was isolated. Cluster 9 is composed of two trimetallic, triangular mu(3)-O(2-)-centered [Fe(3)O(L(2))(2)(OAc)(4)](+) modules, linked by an almost linear mu(2)-O(2-) bridge. The M?ssbauer spectrum together with cyclic voltammetric and square-wave voltammetric measurements of 9 are reported, and 6-9 were characterized unequivocally by single-crystal X-ray structure analyses.     

Redox-noninnocence of the S,S'-coordinated ligands in bis(benzene-1,2-dithiolato)iron complexes

The electronic structures of complexes of iron containing two S,S'-coordinated benzene-1,2-dithiolate, (L)(2)(-), or 3,5-di-tert-butyl-1,2-benzenedithiolate, (L(Bu))(2)(-), ligands have been elucidated in depth by electronic absorption, infrared, X-band EPR, and Mossbauer spectroscopies. It is conclusively shown that, in contrast to earlier reports, high-valent iron(IV) (d(4), S = 1) is not accessible in this chemistry. Instead, the S,S'-coordinated radical monoanions (L(*))(1)(-) and/or (L(Bu)(*))(1)(-) prevail. Thus, five-coordinate [Fe(L)(2)(PMe(3))] has an electronic structure which is best described as [Fe(III)(L)(L(*))(PMe(3))] where the observed triplet ground state of the molecule is attained via intramolecular, strong antiferromagnetic spin coupling between an intermediate spin ferric ion (S(Fe) = (3)/(2)) and a ligand radical (L(*))(1)(-) (S(rad) = (1)/(2)). The following complexes containing only benzene-1,2-dithiolate(2-) ligands have been synthesized, and their electronic structures have been studied in detail: [NH(C(2)H(5))(3)](2)[Fe(II)(L)(2)] (1), [N(n-Bu)(4)](2)[Fe(III)(2)(L)(4)] (2), [N(n-Bu)(4)](2)[Fe(III)(2)(L(Bu))(4)] (3); [P(CH(3))Ph(3)][Fe(III)(L)(2)(t-Bu-py)] (4) where t-Bu-py is 4-tert-butylpyridine. Complexes containing an Fe(III)(L(*))(L)- or Fe(III)(L(Bu))(L(Bu)(*))- moiety are [N(n-Bu)(4)][Fe(III)(2)(L(Bu))(3)(L(Bu)(*))] (3(ox)()), [Fe(III)(L)(L(*))(t-Bu-py)] (4(ox)()), [Fe(III)(L(Bu))(L(Bu)(*))(PMe(3))] (7), [Fe(III)(L(Bu))(L(Bu)(*))(PMe(3))(2)] (8), and [Fe(III)(L(Bu))(L(Bu)(*))(PPr(3))] (9), where Pr represents the n-propyl substituent. Complexes 2, 3(ox)(), 4, [Fe(III)(L)(L(*))(PMe(3))(2)] (6), and 9 have been structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography.     

Iron complexes of 5,10,15,20-tetraphenyl-21-oxaporphyrin

The iron complexes of 5,10,15,20-tetraphenyl-21-oxaporphyrin (OTPP)H have been investigated. Insertion of iron(II) followed by one-electron oxidation yielded a high-spin, six-coordinate (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) complex. The reduction of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) has been accomplished by means of moderate reducing reagents producing high-spin five-coordinate (OTPP)Fe(II)Cl. The molecular structure of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) has been determined by X-ray diffraction. The iron(III) 21-oxaporphyrin skeleton is essentially planar. The furan ring coordinates in the eta(1) fashion through the oxygen atom, which acquires trigonal geometry. The iron(III) apically coordinates two chloride ligands. Addition of potassium cyanide to a solution of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) in methanol-d(4) results in its conversion to a six-coordinate, low-spin complex [OTPP)Fe(III)(CN)(2)] which is spontaneously reduced to [OTPP)Fe(II)(CN)(2)](-) by excess cyanide. The spectroscopic features of [OTPP)Fe(III)(CN)(2)] correspond to the common low-spin iron(III) porphyrin (d(xy))(2)(d(xz)d(yz))(3) electronic configuration. Titration of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) or (OTPP)Fe(II)Cl with n-BuLi (toluene-d(8), 205 K) resulted in the formation of (OTPP)Fe(II)(CH(2)CH(2)CH(2)CH(3)). (OTPP)Fe(II)(n-Bu) decomposes via homolytic cleavage of the iron-carbon bond to produce (OTPP)Fe(I). The EPR spectrum (toluene-d(8), 77 K) is consistent with a (d(xy))(2)(d(xz))(2)(d(yz))(2)(d(z)(2)(1)(d[(x)(2)-(y)(2)])(0) ground electronic state of iron(I) oxaporphyrin (g(1) = 2.234, g(2) = 2.032, g(3) = 1.990). The (1)H NMR spectra of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2), (OTPP)Fe(III)(CN)(2), ([(OTPP)Fe(III))](2)O)(2+), and (OTPP)Fe(II)Cl have been analyzed. There are considerable similarities in (1)H NMR properties within each iron(n) oxaporphyrin-iron(n) regular porphyrin or N-methylporphyrin pair (n = 2, 3). Contrary to this observation, the pattern of downfield positions of pyrrole resonances at 156.2, 126.5, 76.3 ppm and furan resonance at 161.4 ppm (273 K) detected for the two-electron reduction product of (OTPP)Fe(III)Cl(2) is unprecedented in the group of iron(I) porphyrins.     

Reactivity of iron(II) 5,10,15,20-tetraaryl-21-oxaporphyrin with arylmagnesium bromide: formation of paramagnetic six-coordinate complexes with two axial aryl groups

Coordination of sigma-aryl carbanions by chloroiron(II) 5,20-ditolyl-10,15-diphenyl-21-oxaporphyrin (ODTDPP)Fe(II)Cl has been followed by (1)H NMR spectroscopy. Addition of pentafluorophenyl Grignard reagent (C(6)F(5))MgBr to the toluene solution of (ODTDPP)Fe(II)Cl in the absence of dioxygen at 205 K resulted in the formation of the high-spin (ODTDPP)Fe(II)(C(6)F(5)). The titration of (ODTDPP)Fe(II)Cl with a solution of (C(6)H(5))MgBr carried at 205 K yields a rare six-coordinate species which binds two sigma-aryl ligands [(ODTDPP)Fe(II)(C(6)H(5))(2)](-). Warming of the [(ODTDPP)Fe(II)(C(6)H(5))(2)](-) solution above 270 K results in the decomposition to mono-sigma-phenyliron species (ODTDPP)Fe(II)(C(6)H(5)). Controlled oxidation of [(ODTDPP)Fe(II)(C(6)H(5))(2)](-) with Br(2) affords (ODTDPP)Fe(III)(C(6)H(5))Br, which demonstrates a typical (1)H NMR pattern of low-spin sigma-aryl iron(III) porphyrin. The considered oxidation mechanism involves the (ODTDPP)Fe(III)(C(6)H(5))(2) species, which is readily reduced to the iron(I) 21-oxaporphyrin, followed by oxidation with Br(2) and replacement of one bromide anion by aryl substituent. The (1)H NMR spectra of paramagnetic iron complexes have been examined in detail. Functional group assignments have been made with the use of selective deuteration. The peculiar (1)H NMR spectral features of [(ODTDPP)Fe(II)(p-CH(3)C(6)H(4))(2)](-) (sigma-p-tolyl: ortho, 30.8; meta, 53.6; para-CH(3), 42.1; furan: -16.0; beta-H pyrrole: -27.5, -34.3, -41.8 ppm, at 205 K) are without a parallel to any iron(II) porphyrin or heteroporphyrin and indicate a profound alteration of the electronic structure of iron(II) porphyrin upon the coordination of two sigma-aryls.     

Molecular and electronic structures of iron complexes containing N,S-coordinated,open-shell o-iminothionebenzosemiquinonate(1-) pi radicals

The reaction of the dinuclear species (mu-NH,NH)[Fe(III)(L(IP))(L(AP))](2) dissolved in CH(2)Cl(2) with dioxygen affords black microcrystals of diamagnetic (mu-S,S)[Fe(III)(L(IP))(L(ISQ))](2).n-hexane (6) upon the addition of n-hexane, where (L(IP))(2)(-) represents the dianion of 4,6-di-tert-butyl-2-aminothiophenol, (L(AP))(-) is the corresponding monoanion, and (L(ISQ))(-) is the corresponding o-iminothionebenzosemiquinonate(1-) pi radical monoanion; similarly, the dianion ('H(2)N(2)S(2)')(2)(-) is derived from 1,2-ethanediamine-N,N'-bis(2-benzenethiol), and ('N(2)S(2)(*)')(3)(-) is its monoradical trianion. The above reaction in a CH(2)Cl(2)/CH(3)OH (1:1) mixture yields the diamagnetic isomer (mu-NH,NH)[Fe(III)(L(IP))(L(ISQ))](2).5CH(3)OH (7), whereas air oxidation of (mu-S,S)[Fe(II)('H(2)N(2)S(2)')](2) in CH(3)CN yields diamagnetic (mu-S,S)[Fe(III)('N(2)S(2)(*)')](2) (8). Complexes 6 and 8 were shown to undergo addition reactions with phosphines, phosphites, or cyanide affording the following complexes: trans-[Fe(II)(L(ISQ))(2)(P(OPh)(3))] (9; S(t) = 0) and [N(n-Bu)(4)][Fe(II)(L(ISQ))(2)(CN)] (S(t) = 0). Oxidation of 6 in CH(2)Cl(2) with iodine, bromine, and chlorine respectively yields black microcrystals of [Fe(III)(L(ISQ))(2)X] (X = I, Br, or Cl) with S(t) = (1)/(2). The structures of complexes 6-9 have been determined by X-ray crystallography at 100 K. The oxidation level of the ligands and iron ions in all complexes has been unequivocally established, as indicated by crystallography; electron paramagnetic resonance, UV-vis, and M?ssbauer spectroscopies; and magnetic-susceptibility measurements. The N,S-coordinated o-iminothionebenzosemiquinonate(1-) pi radicals have been identified in all new complexes. The electronic structures of the new complexes have been determined, and it is shown that no evidence for iron oxidation states >III is found in this chemistry.     

Aggregation of [(tBu3SiS)MX]: structures of {[Br2Fe(mu-SSitBu3)2)FeBr(THF)]Na(THF)4}infinity, cis-[(THF)FeI]2(mu-SSitBu3)2, [(tBu3SiS)Fe]2(mu-SSitBu3)2, and comparative structure and magnetism studies of [(tBu3SiS)MX]n (M = Fe, Co, X = Cl, n = 12; M = Fe, Ni, X = Br, n = 12; M = Fe, X = I, n = 14)

A convenient synthesis of (t)Bu(3)SiSH and (t)Bu(3)SiSNa(THF)(x)() led to the exploration of "(t)Bu(3)SiSMX" aggregation. The dimer, [((t)Bu(3)SiS)Fe](2)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))(2) (1(2)), was formed from [{(Me(3)Si)(2)N}Fe](2)(mu-N(SiMe(3))(2))(2) and the thiol, and its dissolution in THF generated ((t)Bu(3)SiS)(2)Fe(THF)(2) (1-(THF)(2)). Metathetical procedures with the thiolate yielded aggregate precursors [X(2)Fe](mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))(2)[FeX(THF)]Na(THF)(4) (3-X, X = Cl, Br) and cis-[(THF)IFe](2)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))(2) (4). Thermal desolvations of 3-Cl, 3-Br and 4 afforded molecular wheels [Fe(mu-X)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))](12)(C(6)H(6))(n) (5-FeX, X = Cl, Br) and the ellipse [Fe(mu-I)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))](14)(C(6)H(6))(n) (6-FeI). Related metathesis and desolvation sequences led to wheels [Co(mu-Cl)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))](12)(C(6)H(6))(n) (5-CoCl) and [Ni(mu-Br)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))](12)(C(6)H(6))(n) (5-NiBr). The nickel wheel disproportionated to give, in part, [((t)Bu(3)SiS)Ni](2)(mu-SSi(t)Bu(3))(2) (7), which was also synthesized via salt metathesis. X-ray structural studies of 1(2) revealed a roughly planar Fe(2)S(4) core, while 1-(THF)(2), 3-Br, and 4 possessed simple distorted tetrahedral and edge-shared tetrahedral structures. X-ray structural studies revealed 5-MX (MX = FeCl, FeBr, CoCl, NiBr) to be wheels based on edge-shared tetrahedra, but while the pseudo-D(6)(d) wheels of 5-FeCl, 5-CoCl, and 5-FeBr pack in a body-centered arrangement, those of pseudo-C(6)(v)() 5-NiBr exhibit hexagonal packing and two distinct trans-annular d(Br...Br). Variable-temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements were conducted on 5-FeCl, 5-CoCl, 5-FeBr, and 6-FeI, and the latter three are best construed as weakly antiferromagnetic, while 5-FeCl exhibited modest ferromagnetic coupling. Features suggesting molecular magnetism are most likely affiliated with phase changes at low temperatures.     

Proton control of oxidation and spin state in a series of iron tripodal imidazole complexes

Reaction of iron salts with three tripodal imidazole ligands, H(3)(1), H(3)(2), H(3)(3), formed from the condensation of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (tren) with 3 equiv of an imidazole carboxaldehyde yielded eight new cationic iron(III) and iron(II), [FeH(3)L](3+or2+), and neutral iron(III), FeL, complexes. All complexes were characterized by EA(CHN), IR, UV, M?ssbauer, mass spectral techniques and cyclic voltammetry. Structures of three of the complexes, Fe(2).3H(2)O (C(18)H(27)FeN(10)O(3), a = b = c = 20.2707(5), cubic, I3d, Z = 16), Fe(3).4.5H(2)O (C(18)H(30)FeN(10)O(4.5), a = 20.9986(10), b = 11.7098(5), c = 19.9405(9), beta = 109.141(1), monoclinic, P2(1)/c), Z = 8), and [FeH(3)(3)](ClO(4))(2).H(2)O (C(18)H(26)Cl(2)FeN(10)O(9), a = 9.4848(4), b = 23.2354(9), c = 12.2048(5), beta = 111.147(1) degrees, monoclinic, P2(1)/n, Z = 4) were determined at 100 K. The structures are similar to one another and feature an octahedral iron with facial coordination of imidazoles and imine nitrogen atoms. The iron(III) complexes of the deprotonated ligands, Fe(1), Fe(2), and Fe(3), are low-spin while the protonated iron(III) cationic complexes, [FeH(3)(1)](ClO(4))(3) and [FeH(3)(2)](ClO(4))(3), are high-spin and spin-crossover, respectively. The iron(II) cationic complexes, [FeH(3)(1)]S(4)O(6), [FeH(3)(2)](ClO(4))(2), [FeH(3)(3)](ClO(4))(2), and [FeH(3)(3)][B(C(6)H(5))(4)](2) exhibit spin-crossover behavior. Cyclic voltammetric measurements on the series of complexes show that complete deprotonation of the ligands produces a negative shift in the Fe(III)/Fe(II) reduction potential of 981 mV on average. Deprotonation in air of either cationic iron(II) or iron(III) complexes, [FeH(3)L](3+or2+), yields the neutral iron(III) complex, FeL. The process is reversible for Fe(3), where protonation of Fe(3) yields [FeH(3)(3)](2+).     

Synthesis, structures and catalytic properties of iron(III) complexes with asymmetric N-capped tripodal NO3 ligands and a pentadentate N2O3 ligand

A new family of N-capped tripodal NO(3) proligands N,N-bis(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl)-N-(2'-hydroxy-5'-R-phenyl)amine [H(3)(L(n))] [when R= Me, n = 1; R= (t)Bu, n = 2; R = Cl, n = 3] with different substituents in one of the aryl rings and N,N-bis(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butylbenzyl)-N-(2'-hydroxy-5'-methylphenyl)amine [H(3)(L(4))] were synthesised. The preparation of a new pentadentate proligand N-methyl-N,N',N'-tris(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl)ethane-1,2-diamine [H(3)(L(5))] with an N(2)O(3) donor set is also reported. Reaction of the proligands [H(3)(L(n))] (n = 1-4) with iron(iii) chloride in the presence of base (triethylamine) and 1-methylimidazole (1-Meim) as co-ligand led to the formation of iron complexes of the type [Fe(L(n))(1-Meim)] (n = 1-4) () respectively, while treatment of the trilithium salt of [H(3)(L(5))] with iron(iii) chloride afforded [Fe(L(5))] (). All complexes were structurally characterised by X-ray crystallography. In complexes , the ligands form five- and six-membered chelate rings with the iron centres which have distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry with an N(2)O(3) coordination environment. Complex adopts a similar distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry also with N(2)O(3) coordination around the iron centre. The catalytic activity of these iron complexes towards epoxidation of styrene was examined.     

Reactivity of a (mu-oxo)(mu-hydroxo)diiron(III) diamond core with water, urea, substituted ureas, and acetamide

A series of iron(III) complexes of the tetradentate ligand BPMEN (N,N'-dimethyl-N,N'-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine) were prepared and structurally characterized. Complex [Fe(2)(mu-O)(mu-OH)(BPMEN)(2)](ClO(4))(3) (1) contains a (mu-oxo)(mu-hydroxo)diiron(III) diamond core. Complex [Fe(BPMEN)(urea)(OEt)](ClO(4))(2) (2) is a rare example of a mononuclear non-heme iron(III) alkoxide complex. Complexes [Fe(2)(mu-O)(mu-OC(NH(2))NH)(BPMEN)(2)](ClO(4))(3) (3) and [Fe(2)(mu-O)(mu-OC(NHMe)NH)(BPMEN)(2)](ClO(4))(3) (4) feature N,O-bridging deprotonated urea ligands. The kinetics and equilibrium of the reactions of 1 with ligands L (L = water, urea, 1-methylurea, 1,1-dimethylurea, 1,3-dimethylurea, 1,1,3,3-tetramethylurea, and acetamide) in acetonitrile solutions were studied by stopped-flow UV-vis spectrophotometry, NMR, and mass spectrometry. All these ligands react with 1 in a rapid equilibrium, opening the four-membered Fe(III)(mu-O)(mu-OH)Fe(III) core and forming intermediates with a (HO)Fe(III)(mu-O)Fe(III)(L) core. The entropy and enthalpy for urea binding through oxygen are DeltaH degrees = -25 kJ mol(-1) and DeltaS degrees = -53.4 J mol(-1) K(-1) with an equilibrium constant of K(1) = 37 L mol(-1) at 25 degrees C. Addition of methyl groups on one of the urea nitrogen did not affect this reaction, but the addition of methyl groups on both nitrogens considerably decreased the value of K(1). An opening of the hydroxo bridge in the diamond core complex [Fe(2)(mu-O)(mu-OH)(BPMEN)(2)] is a rapid associative process, with activation enthalpy of about 60 kJ mol(-1) and activation entropies ranging from -25 to -43 J mol(-1) K(-1). For the incoming ligands with the -CONH(2) functionality (urea, 1-methylurea, 1,1-dimethylurea, and acetamide), a second, slow step occurs, leading to the formation of stable N,O-coordinated amidate diiron(III) species such as 3 and 4. The rate of this ring-closure reaction is controlled by the steric bulk of the incoming ligand and by the acidity of the amide group.     

Six-membered metalla-coronands. synthesis and crystal packing: columns, compartments, and 3D-networks

Reaction of various N-substituted diethanolamines H(2)L(3) (4) with calcium hydride and iron(III) chloride leads to the self-assembly of six-membered ferric wheels [Fe(6)X(6)(L(3))(6)] (5). Principally, all the iron coronands are isostructural; however, they differ fundamentally with respect to their crystal packing. Exemplarily, this is discussed for selected members of the space groups R, P, P2(1)/c, P2(1)/n, C2/c, and P. Depending on the nature of their sidearms, the ferric wheels create various substructures. For instance, the ferric wheels 5a-i of space group R or P are piled in parallel in cylindrical columns, which are surrounded by six parallel columns alternately dislocated by (1)/(3)c and (2)/(3)c against the central one. Pronounced van der Waals interactions give rise to compartmentation and incarceration of guest molecules as seen for 5e,g. However, in 5h strong pi-pi interactions create a three-dimensional scaffold. The most significant difference of the ferric wheels 5j-p of space groups P2(1)/c, P2(1)/n, and C2/c is that these ferric wheels are arranged in parallel in two orientations. They differ mainly only by the included angle of the two groups of parallel wheels. In the case of 5l, molecular chains are formed in the crystal due to pi-pi interactions. The ferric wheels 5q-y of space group P are packed in the crystal most simply, with all the ferric wheels piled in parallel.     

Coordination algorithms control molecular architecture: [CuI4(L2)4]4+ grid complex versus [MII2(L2)2X4]y+ side-by-side complexes (M=Mn,Co, Ni,Zn; X=solvent or anion) and [FeII(L2)3][Cl3FeIIIOFeIIICl3

The synthesis and characterisation of a pyridazine-containing two-armed grid ligand L2 (prepared from one equivalent of 3,6-diformylpyridazine and two equivalents of p-anisidine) and the resulting transition metal (Zn, Cu, Ni, Co, Fe, Mn) complexes (1-9) are reported. Single-crystal X-ray structure determinations revealed that the copper(I) complex had self-assembled as a [2 x 2] grid, [Cu(I) (4)(L2)(4)][PF(6)](4).(CH(3)CN)(H(2)O)(CH(3)CH(2)OCH(2)CH(3))(0.25) (2.(CH(3)CN)(H(2)O)(CH(3)CH(2)OCH(2)CH(3))(0.25)), whereas the [Zn(2)(L2)(2)(CH(3)CN)(2)(H(2)O)(2)][ClO(4)](4).CH(3)CN (1.CH(3)CN), [Ni(II) (2)(L2)(2)(CH(3)CN)(4)][BF(4)](4).(CH(3)CH(2)OCH(2)CH(3))(0.25) (5 a.(CH(3)CH(2)OCH(2)CH(3))(0.25)) and [Co(II) (2)(L2)(2)(H(2)O)(2)(CH(3)CN)(2)][ClO(4)](4).(H(2)O)(CH(3)CN)(0.5) (6 a.(H(2)O)(CH(3)CN)(0.5)) complexes adopt a side-by-side architecture; iron(II) forms a monometallic cation binding three L2 ligands, [Fe(II)(L2)(3)][Fe(III)Cl(3)OCl(3)Fe(III)].CH(3)CN (7.CH(3)CN). A more soluble salt of the cation of 7, the diamagnetic complex [Fe(II)(L2)(3)][BF(4)](2).2 H(2)O (8), was prepared, as well as two derivatives of 2, [Cu(I) (2)(L2)(2)(NCS)(2)].H(2)O (3) and [Cu(I) (2)(L2)(NCS)(2)] (4). The manganese complex, [Mn(II) (2)(L2)(2)Cl(4)].3 H(2)O (9), was not structurally characterised, but is proposed to adopt a side-by-side architecture. Variable temperature magnetic susceptibility studies yielded small negative J values for the side-by-side complexes: J=-21.6 cm(-1) and g=2.17 for S=1 dinickel(II) complex [Ni(II) (2)(L2)(2)(H(2)O)(4)][BF(4)](4) (5 b) (fraction monomer 0.02); J=-7.6 cm(-1) and g=2.44 for S= 3/2 dicobalt(II) complex [Co(II) (2)(L2)(2)(H(2)O)(4)][ClO(4)](4) (6 b) (fraction monomer 0.02); J=-3.2 cm(-1) and g=1.95 for S= 5/2 dimanganese(II) complex 9 (fraction monomer 0.02). The double salt, mixed valent iron complex 7.H(2)O gave J=-75 cm(-1) and g=1.81 for the S= 5/2 diiron(III) anion (fraction monomer=0.025). These parameters are lower than normal for Fe(III)OFe(III) species because of fitting of superimposed monomer and dimer susceptibilities arising from trace impurities. The iron(II) centre in 7.H(2)O is low spin and hence diamagnetic, a fact confirmed by the preparation and characterisation of the simple diamagnetic iron(II) complex 8. M?ssbauer measurements at 77 K confirmed that there are two iron sites in 7.H(2)O, a low-spin iron(II) site and a high-spin diiron(III) site. A full electrochemical investigation was undertaken for complexes 1, 2, 5 b, 6 b and 8 and this showed that multiple redox processes are a feature of all of them.     

NMR and theoretical investigations on the structures and dynamics of octahedral bis(chelate)dichloro V(III) compounds isolated by an unusual reduction of non-oxo V(IV) species

Reaction of the non-oxo V(IV) species [V(IV)Cl(2)(L(OO))(2)] [L(OO) = acetylacetonate (acac(-)) or benzoylacetonate (bzac(-))] with a chelate nitrogen-donor ligand L(NN) in acetonitrile leads to the reduction of V(IV) to V(III) and the formation of the mononuclear V(III) compounds of the general formula [V(III)Cl(2)(L(OO))(L(NN))] (L(OO) and L(NN) are acac(-) and bipy for 1; acac- and 5,5'-me(2)bipy for 2; acac(-) and 4,4'-tb(2)bipy for 3; acac(-) and phen for 4; bzac(-) and bipy for 5; bzac(-) and phen for 6). The reduction of the V(IV) complexes was monitored by GC-MS and (1)H NMR spectroscopy. Both one- and two-dimensional (2D COSY and 2D EXSY) (1)H NMR techniques were used to assign the observed (1)H NMR resonances of 1-6 in CD(2)Cl(2) or CDCl(3) solution. It appeared that in solution these V(III) complexes form two isomers which are in equilibrium: cis-[V(III)Cl(2)(L(OO))(L(NN))] <==> trans-[V(III)Cl(2)(L(OO))(L(NN))]. 2D EXSY cross-peaks were clearly observed between bipy- and acac-hydrogen atoms of the two geometrical isomers of 1-3 as well as between bipy and acac(-) protons of the cis isomer, indicating a dynamic process that corresponds to cis-trans isomerization and a cis-cis racemization. The thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of the equilibrium between these two isomers were calculated for compounds 1 and 2 by using variable temperature (VT) NMR data. Both cis-trans isomerization and cis-cis racemization processes probably proceed with an intramolecular twist mechanism involving a trigonal prismatic transition state. Density functional calculations (DFT) also indicated such a rearrangement mechanism.     

Functional mimic of dioxygen-activating centers in non-heme diiron enzymes: mechanistic implications of paramagnetic intermediates in the reactions between diiron(II) complexes and dioxygen

Two tetracarboxylate diiron(II) complexes, [Fe(2)(mu-O(2)CAr(Tol))(2)(O(2)CAr(Tol))(2)(C(5)H(5)N)(2)] (1a) and [Fe(2)(mu-O(2)CAr(Tol))(4)(4-(t)BuC(5)H(4)N)(2)] (2a), where Ar(Tol)CO(2)(-) = 2,6-di(p-tolyl)benzoate, react with O(2) in CH(2)Cl(2) at -78 degrees C to afford dark green intermediates 1b (lambda(max) congruent with 660 nm; epsilon = 1600 M(-1) cm(-1)) and 2b (lambda(max) congruent with 670 nm; epsilon = 1700 M(-1) cm(-1)), respectively. Upon warming to room temperature, the solutions turn yellow, ultimately converting to isolable diiron(III) compounds [Fe(2)(mu-OH)(2)(mu-O(2)CAr(Tol))(2)(O(2)CAr(Tol))(2)L(2)] (L = C(5)H(5)N (1c), 4-(t)BuC(5)H(4)N (2c)). EPR and M?ssbauer spectroscopic studies revealed the presence of equimolar amounts of valence-delocalized Fe(II)Fe(III) and valence-trapped Fe(III)Fe(IV) species as major components of solution 2b. The spectroscopic and reactivity properties of the Fe(III)Fe(IV) species are similar to those of the intermediate X in the RNR-R2 catalytic cycle. EPR kinetic studies revealed that the processes leading to the formation of these two distinctive paramagnetic components are coupled to one another. A mechanism for this reaction is proposed and compared with those of other synthetic and biological systems, in which electron transfer occurs from a low-valent starting material to putative high-valent dioxygen adduct(s).     

Coordination versatility of tridentate pyridyl aroylhydrazones towards iron: tracking down the elusive aroylhydrazono-based ferric spin-crossover molecular materials

The two potentially tridentate and monoprotic Schiff bases acetylpyridine benzoylhydrazone (HL(1)) and acetylpyridine 4-tert-butylbenzoylhydrazone (HL(2)) demonstrate remarkable coordination versatility towards iron on account of their propensity to undergo tautomeric transformations as imposed by the metal centre. Each of the pyridyl aroylhydrazone ligands complexes with the ferrous or ferric ion under strictly controlled reaction conditions to afford three six-coordinate mononuclear compounds [Fe(II)(HL)(2)](ClO(4))(2), [Fe(II)L(2)] and [Fe(III)L(2)]ClO(4) (HL = HL(1) or HL(2)) displaying distinct colours congruent with their intense CT visible absorptions. The synthetic manoeuvres rely crucially on the stoichiometry of the reactants, the basicities of the reaction mixtures and the choice of solvent. Electrochemically, each of these iron compounds exhibits a reversible metal-centred redox process. By all appearances, [Fe(III)(L(1))(2)]ClO(4) is one of only two examples of a crystallographically elucidated iron(III) bis-chelate compound of a pyridyl aroylhydrazone. Several pertinent physical measurements have established that each of the Schiff bases stabilises multiple spin states of iron; the enolate form of these ligands exhibits greater field strength than does the corresponding neutral keto tautomer. To the best of our knowledge, [Fe(III)(L(1))(2)]ClO(4) and [Fe(III)(L(2))(2)]ClO(4) are the first examples of ferric spin crossovers of aroylhydrazones. Whereas in the former the spin crossover (SCO) is an intricate gradual process, in the latter the (6)A(1)?(2)T(2) transition curve is sigmoidal with T(?)～280 K and the SCO is virtually complete. As regards [Fe(III)(L(1))(2)]ClO(4), M?ssbauer and EPR spectroscopic techniques have revealed remarkable dependence of the spin transition on sample type and extent of solvation. In frozen MeOH solution at liquid nitrogen temperature, both iron(III) compounds exist wholly in the doublet ground state.     

Unexpected direct iron-fluorine bonds in trifluorophosphane iron complexes: an alternative to bridging trifluorophosphane and difluorophosphido groups

The iron trifluorophosphane complexes [Fe(PF(3))(n)] (n=4, 5), [Fe(2)(PF(3))(n)] (n=8, 9), [H(2)Fe(PF(3))(4)], and [Fe(2)(PF(2))(2)(PF(3))(6)] have been studied by density functional theory. The lowest energy structures of [Fe(PF(3))(4)] and [Fe(PF(3))(5)] are a triplet tetrahedron and a singlet trigonal bipyramid, respectively. Both cis and trans octahedral structures were found for [H(2)Fe(PF(3))(4)] with the cis isomer lying lower in energy by approximately 10 kcal mol(-1). The lowest energy structure for [Fe(2)(PF(3))(8)] has two [Fe(PF(3))(4)] units linked only by an iron-iron bond of length 2.505 A consistent with the formal Fe=Fe double bond required to give both iron atoms the favored 18-electron configuration. In the lowest energy structure for [Fe(2)(PF(3))(9)] one of the iron atoms has inserted into a P-F bond of one of the PF(3) ligands to give a structure [(F(3)P)(4)Fe<--PF(2)Fe(F)(PF(3))(4)] with a bridging PF(2) group and a direct Fe-F bond. A bridging PF(3) group is found in a considerably higher energy [Fe(2)(PF(3))(9)] structure at approximately 30 kcal mol(-1) above the global minimum. However, this bridging PF(3) group keeps the two iron atoms too far apart (approximately 4 A) for the direct iron-iron bond required to give the iron atoms the favored 18-electron configuration. The preferred structure for [Fe(2)(PF(2))(2)(PF(3))(6)] has a bridging PF(2) group, as expected. However, this bridging PF(2) group bonds to one of the iron atoms through an P-Fe covalent bond and to the other iron through an F-->Fe dative bond, leaving an uncomplexed phosphorus lone pair.     

Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of Fe complexes containing cyclic diazadiphosphine ligands: the role of the pendant base in heterolytic cleavage of H2

The iron complexes CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2))Cl (1-Cl), CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Ph)(2))Cl (2-Cl), and CpFe(P(Ph)(2)C(5))Cl (3-Cl)(where P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2) is 1,5-dibenzyl-1,5-diaza-3,7-diphenyl-3,7-diphosphacyclooctane, P(Ph)(2)N(Ph)(2) is 1,3,5,7-tetraphenyl-1,5-diaza-3,7-diphosphacyclooctane, and P(Ph)(2)C(5) is 1,4-diphenyl-1,4-diphosphacycloheptane) have been synthesized and characterized by NMR spectroscopy, electrochemical studies, and X-ray diffraction. These chloride derivatives are readily converted to the corresponding hydride complexes [CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2))H (1-H), CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Ph)(2))H (2-H), CpFe(P(Ph)(2)C(5))H (3-H)] and H(2) complexes [CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2))(H(2))]BAr(F)(4), [1-H(2)]BAr(F)(4), (where BAr(F)(4) is B[(3,5-(CF(3))(2)C(6)H(3))(4)](-)), [CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Ph)(2))(H(2))]BAr(F)(4), [2-H(2)]BAr(F)(4), and [CpFe(P(Ph)(2)C(5))(H(2))]BAr(F)(4), [3-H(2)]BAr(F)(4), as well as [CpFe(P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2))(CO)]BAr(F)(4), [1-CO]Cl. Structural studies are reported for [1-H(2)]BAr(F)(4), 1-H, 2-H, and [1-CO]Cl. The conformations adopted by the chelate rings of the P(Ph)(2)N(Bn)(2) ligand in the different complexes are determined by attractive or repulsive interactions between the sixth ligand of these pseudo-octahedral complexes and the pendant N atom of the ring adjacent to the sixth ligand. An example of an attractive interaction is the observation that the distance between the N atom of the pendant amine and the C atom of the coordinated CO ligand for [1-CO]BAr(F)(4) is 2.848 ?, considerably shorter than the sum of the van der Waals radii of N and C atoms. Studies of H/D exchange by the complexes [1-H(2)](+), [2-H(2)](+), and [3-H(2)](+) carried out using H(2) and D(2) indicate that the relatively rapid H/D exchange observed for [1-H(2)](+) and [2-H(2)](+) compared to [3-H(2)](+) is consistent with intramolecular heterolytic cleavage of H(2) mediated by the pendant amine. Computational studies indicate a low barrier for heterolytic cleavage of H(2). These mononuclear Fe(II) dihydrogen complexes containing pendant amines in the ligands mimic crucial features of the distal Fe site of the active site of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase required for H-H bond formation and cleavage.     

Acetylide-bridged organometallic oligomers via the photochemical metathesis of methyl-iron(II) complexes

The acetylido methyl iron(II) complexes, cis/trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(CH(3))] (1) and trans-[Fe(depe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(CH(3))] (2) (dmpe = 1,2-dimethylphoshinoethane; depe = 1,2-diethylphosphinoethane), were synthesized by transmetalation from the corresponding alkyl halide complexes. Acetylido methyl iron(II) complexes were also formed by transmetalation from the chloride complexes, trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(Cl)] or trans-[Fe(depe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(Cl)]. The structure of trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(5))(CH(3))] (1a) was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The methyl acetylido iron complexes, [Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(CH(3))] (1), are thermally stable in the presence of acetylenes; however, under UV irradiation, methane is lost with the formation of a metal bisacetylide. Photochemical metathesis of cis- or trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(CH(3))(C[triple bond]CR)] (R = C(6)H(5) (1a), 4-C(6)H(4)OCH(3) (1b)) with terminal acetylenes was used to selectively synthesize unsymmetrically substituted iron(II) bisacetylide complexes of the type trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CR)(C[triple bond]CR')] [R = Ph, R' = Ph (6a), 4-CH(3)OC(6)H(4) (6b), (t)()Bu (6c), Si(CH(3))(3) (6d), (CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]CH (6e); R = 4-CH(3)OC(6)H(4), R' = 4-CH(3)OC(6)H(4), (6g), (t)()Bu (6h), (CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]CH (6i), adamantyl (6j)]. The structure of the unsymmetrical iron(II) bisacetylide complex trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(5))(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(4)OCH(3))] (6b) was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The photochemical metathesis of the bis-acetylene, 1,7-octadiyne, with trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(CH(3))(C[triple bond]CPh)] (1a), was utilized to synthesize the bridged binuclear species trans,trans-[(C(6)H(5)C[triple bond]C)Fe(dmpe)(2)(mu-C[triple bond]C(CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]C)Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(5))] (11). The trinuclear species trans,trans,trans-[(C(6)H(5)C[triple bond]C)Fe(dmpe)(2)(mu-C[triple bond]C(CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]C)Fe(dmpe)(2)(mu-C[triple bond]C(CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]C)Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(5))] (12) was synthesized by the photochemical reaction of Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CPh)(C[triple bond]C(CH(2))(4)C[triple bond]CH) (6e) with Fe(dmpe)(2)(CH(3))(2). Extended irradiation of the bisacetylide complexes with phenylacetylene resulted in insertion of the terminal alkyne into one of the metal acetylide bonds to give acetylide butenyne complexes. The structure of the acetylide butenyne complex, trans-[Fe(dmpe)(2)(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(4)OCH(3))(eta(1)-C(C(6)H(5))=CH(C[triple bond]CC(6)H(4)OCH(3)))] (9a) was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.