Redox chemistry of the acetato-bridged clusters [M3(mu3-O)n(mu-O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ (M = Mo, W, n = 1, 2): reversible redox between mono-micro3-oxo d8 M(III)2M(IV) and d9 M(III)3 forms

A cyclic voltammogram of aqueous 0.1 mol dm(-3) triflic acid solutions of the d6 bioxo-capped M-M bonded cluster [Mo3(mu3-O)2(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ at a glassy carbon electrode at 25 degrees C gives rise to an irreversible 3e- cathodic wave to a d9 Mo(III)3 species at -0.8 V vs. SCE which on the return scan gives rise to two anodic waves at +0.05 V vs. SCE (E(1/2), 1e- reversible to d8 Mo(III)2Mo(IV)) and +0.48 V vs. SCE (2e- irreversible back to d6 Mo(IV)3). The number of electrons passed at each redox wave has been confirmed by redox titration and controlled potential electrolysis which resulted in 90% recovery of [Mo3(mu3-O)2(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ following electrochemical re-oxidation at +0.8 V. A corresponding CV study of the d8 monoxo-capped W(III)2W(IV) cluster [W3(mu3-O)(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ gives rise to a reversible 1e- cathodic process at -0.92 V vs. SCE to give the d9 W(III)3 species [W3(mu3-O)(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]+; the first authentic example of a W(III) complex with coordinated water ligands. However the cluster is too unstable (O2/water sensitive) to allow isolation. Comparisons with the cv study on [Mo3(mu3-O)2(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ suggest irreversible reduction of this complex to monoxo-capped [Mo(III)3(mu3-O)(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]+ followed by reversible oxidation to its d8 counterpart [Mo3(mu3-O)(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ (Mo(III)2Mo(IV)) and finally irreversible oxidation back to the starting bioxo-capped cluster. Exposing the d9 Mo(III)3 cluster to air (O2) however gives a different final product with evidence of break up of the acetate bridged framework. Corresponding redox processes on d6 [W3(mu3-O)2(O2CCH3)6(H2O)3]2+ are too cathodic to allow similar generation of the monoxo-capped W(III)3 and W(III)2W(IV) clusters at the electrode surface.     

pH-dependent H2-activation cycle coupled to reduction of nitrate ion by CpIr complexes.

This paper reports a pH-dependent H2-activation [H2 (pH 1-4) --> H+ + H- (pH -1) --> 2H+ + 2e-] promoted by CpIr complexes [Cp = eta5-C5(CH3)5]. In a pH range of about 1-4, an aqueous HNO3 solution of [CpIr(III)(H2O)3]2+ (1) reacts with 3 equiv of H2 to yield a solution of [(CpIr(III))2(mu-H)3]+ (2) as a result of heterolytic H2-activation [2[1] + 3H2 (pH 1-4) --> [2] + 3H+ + 6H2O]. The hydrido ligands of 2 display protonic behavior and undergo H/D exchange with D+: [M-(H)3-M]+ + 3D+ <==>[M-(D)3-M]+ + 3H+ (where M = CpIr). Complex 2 is insoluble in a pH range of about -0.2 (1.6 M HNO3/H2O) to -0.8 (6.3 M HNO3/H2O). At pH -1 (10 M HNO3/H2O), a powder of 2 drastically reacts with HNO3 to give a solution of [CpIr(III)(NO3)2] (3) with evolution of H2, NO, and NO2 gases. D-labeling experiments show that the evolved H2 is derived from the hydrido ligands of 2. These results suggest that oxidation of the hydrido ligands of 2 [[2] + 4NO3- (pH -1) --> 2[3] + H2 + H+ + 4e-] couples to reduction of NO3- (NO3- --> NO2- --> NO). To complete the reaction cycle, complex 3 is transformed into 1 by increasing the pH of the solution from -1 to 1. Therefore, we are able to repeat the reaction cycle using 1, H2, and a pH gradient between 1 and -1. A conceivable mechanism for the H2-activation cycle with reduction of NO3- is proposed.     

Preparation and properties of the full series of cuboidal clusters [Mo(x)W4-xSe4(H2O)12]n+ (n = 4-6) and their derivatives

Hydrothermal reactions between incomplete cuboidal cluster aqua complexes [M3Q4(H2O)9]4+ and M(CO)6 (M = Mo, W; Q = S, Se) offer easy access to the corresponding cuboidal clusters M4Q4. The complete series of homometal and mixed Mo/W clusters [Mo(x)W4-xQ4(H2O)12]n+ (x = 0-4, n = 4-6) has been prepared. Upon oxidation of the mixed-metal clusters, it is the W atom which is lost, allowing selective preparation of new trinuclear clusters [Mo2WSe4(H2O)9]4+ and [MoW2Se4(H2O)9]4+. The aqua complexes were converted by ligand exchange reactions into dithiophosphato and thiocyanato complexes, and crystal structures of [W4S4((EtO)2PS2)6], [MoW3S4((EtO)2PS2)6], [Mo4Se4((EtO)2PS2)6], [W4Se4((i-PrO)2PS2)6], and (NH4)6[W4Se4(NCS)12]-4H20 were determined. Cyclic voltammetry was performed on [Mo(x)W4-xCO4(H2O)12]n+, showing reversible redox waves 6+/5+ and 5+/4+. The lower oxidation states are more difficult to access as the number of W atoms increases. The [Mo2WSe4(H2O)9]4+ and [MoW2Se4(H2O)9]4+ species were derivatized into [Mo2WSe4(acac)3(py)3]+ and [MoW2Se4(acac)3(py)3]+, which were also studied by CV. When appropriate, the products were also characterized by FAB-MS and NMR (31P, 1H) data.     

Mechanistic implications of proton transfer coupled to electron transfer.

The kinetics of electron transfer for the reactions cis-[Ru(IV)(bpy)2(py)(O)]2+ + H+ + [Os(II)(bpy)3]2+ <==> cis-[Ru(III)(bpy)2(py)(OH)]2+ + [Os(III)(bpy)3]3+ and cis-[Ru(III)(bpy)2(py)(OH)]2+ + H+ + [Os(II)(bpy)3]2+ <==> cis-[Ru(II)(bpy)2(py)(H2O)]2+ + [Os(III)(bpy)3]3+ have been studied in both directions by varying the pH from 1 to 8. The kinetics are complex but can be fit to a double "square scheme" involving stepwise electron and proton transfer by including the disproportionation equilibrium, 2cis-[Ru(III)(bpy)2(py)(OH)]2+ <==> (3 x 10(3) M(-1) x s(-1) forward, 2.1 x 10(5) M(-1) x s(-1) reverse) cis-[Ru(IV)(bpy)2(py)(O)]2+ + cis-[Ru(II)(bpy)2(py)(H2O)]2+. Electron transfer is outer-sphere and uncoupled from proton transfer. The kinetic study has revealed (1) pH-dependent reactions where the pH dependence arises from the distribution between acid and base forms and not from variations in the driving force; (2) competing pathways involving initial electron transfer or initial proton transfer whose relative importance depends on pH; (3) a significant inhibition to outer-sphere electron transfer for the Ru(IV)=O2+/Ru(III)-OH2+ couple because of the large difference in pK(a) values between Ru(IV)=OH3+ (pK(a) < 0) and Ru(III)-OH2+ (pK(a) > 14); and (4) regions where proton loss from cis-[Ru(II)(bpy)2(py)(H2O)]2+ or cis-[Ru(III)(bpy)2(py)(OH)]2+ is rate limiting. The difference in pK(a) values favors more complex pathways such as proton-coupled electron transfer.     

Redox-induced solid-solid phase transformation of TCNQ microcrystals into semiconducting Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 nanowire (flowerlike) architectures: a combined voltammetric, spectroscopic, and microscopic study

The facile solid-solid phase transformation of TCNQ microcrystals into semiconducting and magnetic Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 nanowire (flowerlike) architectures is achieved by reduction of TCNQ-modified electrodes in the presence of Ni2+(aq)-containing electrolytes. Voltammetric probing revealed that the chemically reversible TCNQ/Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 conversion process is essentially independent of electrode material and the identity of nickel counteranion but is significantly dependent on scan rate, Ni2+(aq) electrolyte concentration, and the method of solid TCNQ immobilization (drop casting or mechanical attachment). Data analyzed from cyclic voltammetric and double-potential step chronoamperometric experiments are consistent with formation of the Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 complex via a rate-determining nucleation/growth process that involves incorporation of Ni2+(aq) ions into the reduced TCNQ crystal lattice at the triple phase TCNQ|electrode|electrolyte interface. The reoxidation process, which includes the conversion of solid Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 back to TCNQ0 crystals, is also controlled by nucleation/growth kinetics. The overall redox process associated with this chemically reversible solid-solid transformation, therefore, is described by the equation: TCNQ0(S) + 2e- + Ni2+(aq)+ 2 H2O <==> {Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2}(S). SEM monitoring of the changes that accompany the TCNQ/Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 transformation revealed that the morphology and crystal size of electrochemically generated Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 are substantially different from those of parent TCNQ crystals. Importantly, the morphology of Ni[TCNQ]2(H2O)2 can be selectively manipulated to produce either 1-D/2-D nanowires or 3-D flowerlike architectures via careful control over the experimental parameters used to accomplish the solid-solid phase interconversion process.     

Electrochemical and chemical formation of [Mn4(IV)O5(terpy)4(H2O)2]6+, in relation with the photosystem II oxygen-evolving center model [Mn2(III,IV)O2(terpy)2(H2O)2]3+

To examine the real ability of the binuclear di-mu-oxo complex [Mn2(III,IV)O2(terpy)2(H2O)2]3+ (2) to act as a catalyst for water oxidation, we have investigated in detail its redox properties and that of its mononuclear precursor complex [Mn(II)(terpy)2]2+ (1) in aqueous solution. It appears that electrochemical oxidation of 1 allows the quantitative formation of 2 and, most importantly, that electrochemical oxidation of 2 quantitatively yields the stable tetranuclear Mn(IV) complex, [Mn4(IV)O5(terpy)4(H2O)2]6+ (4), having a linear mono-mu-oxo{Mn2(mu-oxo)2}2 core. Therefore, these results show that the electrochemical oxidation of 2 in aqueous solution is only a one-electron process leading to 4 via the formation of a mono-mu-oxo bridge between two oxidized [Mn2(IV,IV)O2(terpy)2(H2O)2]4+ species. 4 is also quantitatively formed by dissolution of the binuclear complex [Mn2(IV,IV)O2(terpy)2(SO4)2] (3) in aqueous solutions. Evidence of this work is that 4 is stable in aqueous solutions, and even if it is a good synthetic analogue of the "dimers-of-dimers" model compound of the OEC in PSII, this complex is not able to oxidize water. As a consequence, since 4 results from an one-electron oxidation of 2, 2 cannot act as an efficient homogeneous electrocatalyst for water oxidation. This work demonstrates that a simple oxidation of 2 cannot produce molecular oxygen without the help of an oxygen donor.     

Reductions by titanium(II) as catalyzed by titanium(IV)

The cobalt(III) complexes, [(NH3)5CoBr]2+ and [(NH3)5CoI]2+ are reduced by Ti(II) solutions containing Ti(IV), generating nearly linear (zero-order) profiles that become curved only during the last few percent of reaction. Other Co(III)-Ti(II) systems exhibit the usual exponential traces with rates proportional to [Co(III)]. Observed kinetics of the biphasic catalyzed Ti(II)-Co(III)Br and Ti(II)-Co(III)I reactions support the reaction sequence: [Ti(II)(H20)n]2+ + [Ti(IV)F5]- (k1)<==>(k -1) [Ti(II)(H2O)(n-1)]2+ + [(H2O)Ti(IV)F5]-, [Ti(II)(H2O)(n-1)]2+ + Co(III) (k2)--> Ti(III) + Co(II) with rates determined mainly by the slow Ti(IV)-Ti(II) ligand exchange (k1 = 9 x 10(-3) M(-1) s(-1) at 22 degrees C). Computer simulations of the catalyzed Ti(II)-Co(III) reaction in perchlorate-triflate media yield relative rates for reduction by the proposed active [Ti(II)(H2O)(n-1)]2+ intermediate; k(Br)/k(I) = 8.     

Synthesis and redox characterization of the polyoxo anion, gamma*-[S2W18O62]4-: a unique fast oxidation pathway determines the characteristic reversible electrochemical behavior of polyoxometalate anions in acidic media

The synthesis and characterization of (Bu4N)4[S2W18O62].1.23MeCN.0.27H2O are reported. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c with a = 22.389(6) A, b = 22.104(3) A, c = 25.505(5) A, beta = 95.690(15) degrees, V = 12560(5) A3, and Z = 4. The anion exists as the gamma* isomer, the second example of this isomer type to be characterized structurally. The equivalent molybdenum salt occurs as the alpha isomer. gamma*-[S2W18O62]4- in MeCN solution displayed four electrochemically reversible one-electron redox processes at E1/2 values of -0.24, -0.62, -1.18, and -1.57 V versus the Fc+/Fc couple. Upon addition of acid in MeCN/H2O (95/5 v/v), the two most cathodic processes converted to an overall two-electron process at -0.71 V. The total data suggested that this process actually comprises two one-electron transfer processes, occurring at different potentials, with associated proton-transfer reactions. The interpretation is supported by simulation of the effect of acid titration upon the cyclic voltammetry. While multiple pathways for correlated reduction and protonation are present in both the molybdenum and tungsten systems, only a single fast oxidation pathway is available. As the reduced forms of [S2W18O62]4- are much weaker bases than those of [S2Mo18O62]4-, the individual oxidation pathways are not the same. However, their existence determines the highly reversible electrochemical behavior that is characteristic of these anions, and that of polyoxometalate systems in general.     

Quantum chemical investigation of formation of polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans from oxidation and pyrolysis of 2-chlorophenol

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been used to obtain thermochemical parameters for formation of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/PCDF) from the oxidation of 2-chlorophenol. Formation mechanisms of PCDD through radical-radical coupling have been investigated in detail. The sequence of 2-chlorophenoxy radical coupling has been studied. The formation of chlorinated bis keto dimers which results from cross coupling of 2-chlorophenoxy at the ortho carbon bearing hydrogen (a known direct route for PCDF formation) passes through a tight transition structure whose barrier is 9.4 kcal/mol (0 K). Three routes for the formation of the most abundant PCDD/PCDF species (viz., 4,6-dichlorodibenzofuran, 4,6-DCDF, and 1-monochlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, 1-MCDD) in oxidation and pyrolysis of 2-chlorophenol are discussed. In the case of 4,6-DCDF, formation through H or HO + keto-keto <==> H2 or H2O + keto-keto* <==> H2 or H2O + enol-keto* <==> H2 or H2O + 4,6-DCDF + HO is shown to be the preferred route. The other two routes proceed via closed shell processes (keto-keto <==> enol-keto <==> enol-enol <==> H2O + 4,6-DCDF) and (keto-keto <==> enol-keto <==> (H-,OH-) 4,6-DCDF <==> H2O + 4,6-DCDF). Results indicate that 1-MCDD should be the favored product in 2-chlorophenol pyrolysis in agreement with experimental findings. According to our results, tautomerization (inter-ring hydrogen transfer) and intra-annular displacement of HCl would not be competitive with paths deriving from H abstraction from the phenolic oxygen and the benzene ring followed by displacement of Cl in the formation of dibenzo-p-dioxin (DD) and 1-MCDD. The results presented here will assist in construction of detailed kinetic models to account for the formation of PCDD/PCDF from chlorophenols.     

Mechanistic analysis of the electrocatalytic properties of dissolved alpha and beta isomers of [SiW12O40]4- and solid [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40] on the reduction of nitrite in acidic aqueous media

Voltammetric studies on the reduction of alpha and beta isomers of the Keggin polyoxometalate anion [SiW12O40]4- reveal a series of electrochemically reversible processes in acidic aqueous media. In the presence of NO2-, catalytic current is detected in the potential region of the [SiW12O40]4-/5- process. Electronic spectroscopy and simulation of voltammetric data undertaken at variable [NO2-] and [H+] allow the following mechanism to be postulated, [SiW12O40]4- + e- <-->[SiW12O40]5-, H+ + HNO2 <--> NO+ + H2O, NO+ + [SiW12O40]5- --> NO + [SiW12O40]4-. The second-order rate constant for the rate-determining step is faster for the alpha isomer than for the beta one. This may be attributed to the different reversible potentials of -0.144 V (alpha isomer) and -0.036 V vs Ag/AgCl (beta isomer) and, hence, smaller driving force for an assumed outer sphere electron-transfer reaction in the case of beta isomer. A stable, water-insoluble, thin-film [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40] chemically modified electrode was generated electrochemically via ion-exchange of [Ru(bipy)3]2+ with Bu4N+ in the [Bu4N]4[alpha-SiW12O40] solid. The first reduction process with this modified electrode gives rise to the reaction [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40](solid) + H+(soln) + e- <--> H[Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40](solid). The need to transfer a proton from the solution to the solid phase for charge neutralization purposes introduces a hydrogen-ion concentration dependence into this reaction, which is not found in the solution-phase study. Nevertheless, the voltammetric catalytic activity with respect to nitrite reduction is retained with the chemically modified electrode. However, nitrite catalysis with the [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40]-modified electrode is now independent of concentration of H+, rather than exhibiting a first-order dependence, and full mechanistic details for this process are unknown.     

Stabilization of reduced molybdenum-iron-sulfur single- and double-cubane clusters by cyanide ligation

Recent work has shown that cyanide ligation increases the redox potentials of Fe(4)S(4) clusters, enabling the isolation of [Fe(4)S(4)(CN)4]4-, the first synthetic Fe(4)S(4) cluster obtained in the all-ferrous oxidation state (Scott, T. A.; Berlinguette, C. P.; Holm, R. H.; Zhou, H.-C. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 2005, 102, 9741). The generality of reduced cluster stabilization has been examined with MoFe(3)S(4) clusters. Reaction of single-cubane [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(PEt(3))3]1+ and edge-bridged double-cubane [(Tp)2Mo(2)Fe(6)S(8)(PEt(3))4] with cyanide in acetonitrile affords [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(CN)3]2- (2) and [(Tp)2Mo(2)Fe(6)S(8)(CN)4]4- (5), respectively. Reduction of 2 with KC(14)H(10) yields [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(CN)3]3- (3). Clusters were isolated in approximately 70-90% yields as Et(4)N+ or Bu(4)N+ salts; clusters 3 and 5 contain all-ferrous cores, and 3 is the first [MoFe(3)S(4)]1+ cluster isolated in substance. The structures of 2 and 3 are very similar; the volume of the reduced cluster core is slightly larger (2.5%), a usual effect upon reduction of cubane-type Fe(4)S(4) and MFe(3)S(4) clusters. Redox potentials and 57Fe isomer shifts of [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)L3]2-,3- and [(Tp)2Mo(2)Fe(6)S(8)L(4)]4-,3- clusters with L = CN-, PhS-, halide, and PEt3 are compared. Clusters with pi-donor ligands (L = halide, PhS) exhibit larger isomer shifts and lower (more negative) redox potentials, while pi-acceptor ligands (L = CN, PEt3) induce smaller isomer shifts and higher (less-negative) redox potentials. When the potentials of 3/2 and [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(SPh)3]3-/2- are compared, cyanide stabilizes 3 by 270 mV versus the reduced thiolate cluster, commensurate with the 310 mV stabilization of [Fe(4)S(4)(CN)4]4- versus [Fe(4)S(4)(SPh)4]4- where four ligands differ. These results demonstrate the efficacy of cyanide stabilization of lower cluster oxidation states. (Tp = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate(1-)).     

Synthesis and electrochemistry of new Rh-centered and conjuncto rhodium carbonyl clusters. X-ray structure of [NEt(4)](3)[Rh(15)(CO)(27)], [NEt(4)](3)[Rh(15)(CO)(25)(MeCN)(2)] x 2MeCN, and [NEt(4)](3)[Rh(17)(CO)(37)

A reinvestigation of the redox chemistry of [Rh7(CO)16]3- resulted in the finding of new alternative syntheses for a series of previously reported Rh-centered carbonyl clusters, i.e., [H4-nRh14(CO)25]n- (n = 3 and 4) and [Rh17(CO)30]3-, as well as new species such as a different isomer of [Rh15(CO)27]3-, the carbonyl-substituted [Rh15(CO)25(MeCN)2]3-, and the conjuncto [Rh17(CO)37]3- clusters. All of the above clusters are suggested to derive from oxidation of [Rh7(CO)16]3- with H+, arising from dissociation either of [M(H2O)n]2+ aquo complexes or nonoxidizing acids. The nature of the previously reported species has been confirmed by IR, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and complete X-ray diffraction studies. Only the molecular structures of the new clusters are reported in some details. The ready conversion of [Rh7(CO)16]3- in [HRh14(CO)25]3- upon oxidation has been confirmed by electrochemical techniques. In addition, electrochemical studies point out that the close-packed [H3Rh13(CO)24]2- dianion undergoes a reversible monoelectronic reduction followed by an irreversible reduction. The irreversibility of the second reduction is probably a consequence of H2 elimination from a purported [H3Rh13(CO)24]4- species. Conversely, the body-centered-cubic [HRh14(CO)25]3- and [Rh15(CO)27]3- trianions display several well-defined redox changes with features of electrochemical reversibility, even at low scan rate. The major conclusion of this work is that mild experimental conditions and a tailored oxidizing reagent may enable more selective conversion of [Rh7(CO)16]3- into a higher-nuclearity rhodium carbonyl cluster. It is also shown that isonuclear Rh clusters may display isomeric metal frameworks [i.e., [Rh15(CO)27]3-], as well as almost identical metal frames stabilized by a different number of carbonyl groups [i.e., [Rh15(CO)27]3- and [Rh15(CO)30]3-]. Other isonuclear Rh clusters stabilized by a different number of CO ligands more expectedly exhibit completely different metal geometries [i.e., [Rh17(CO)30]3- and [Rh17(CO)37]3-]. The first pair of isonuclear and isoskeletal clusters is particularly astonishing in that [Rh15(CO)30]3- features six valence electrons more than [Rh15(CO)27]3-. Finally, the electrochemical studies seem to suggest that interstitial Rh atoms are less effective than Ni and Pt interstitial atoms in promoting redox properties and inducing molecular capacitor behavior in carbonyl clusters.     

Electrochemical synthesis and structural and physical characterization of one- and two-electron-reduced forms of [SMo12O40]2-

Isolation of a soluble [NHex4]+ salt has allowed a detailed electrochemical study of the anion alpha-[SMo12O40]2- to be undertaken. Four reversible one-electron-reduction processes are observed in CH2Cl2 solution. Controlled potential electrolysis led to isolation of tetraalkylammonium salts of the one-electron-reduced anion alpha-[SMo12O40]3- and the two-electron-reduced anion alpha-[SMo12O40].4- [SMo12O40]3- is stable to disproportionation in dry solvents (Kdis = 10(-7.4). EPR and magnetic susceptibility data indicate that [SMo12O40]3- is a simple paramagnet (S = 1/2) while [SMo12O40]4- is paramagnetic with the mu eff values decreasing at low temperatures. Solutions of the two-electron-reduced species are EPR silent, but microcrystalline powders show very weak signals. The crystal structure of alpha-[NBu4]3[SMo12O40] has been determined (triclinic P1; a = 13.840(3) A; b = 15.587(4) A; c = 19.370(3) A; alpha = 94.82(2) degrees; beta = 93.10(1) degrees; gamma = 91.05(2) degrees; Z = 2). There is disorder around the C2 axis of the central SO4(2-) tetrahedron. In the presence of aqueous HClO4 (0.045 M) in thf/H2O or MeCN/H2O (98/2 v/v), [SMo12O40]2- exhibits five two-electron-reduction processes. Under these conditions, [SMo12O40]3- protonates and disproportionates into [SMo12O40]2- and the (2e-, 2H+)-reduced anion [H2SMo12O40]2-.     

From chain to network: design and analysis of novel organic-inorganic assemblies from organically functionalized zinc-substituted polyoxovanadates and zinc organoamine subunits

A series of novel organic-inorganic assemblies, [Zn(Meen)2]2[(4,4'-bipy)Zn2As8V12O40(H2O)] (1), [Zn(en)2(H2O)][Zn(en)2(4,4'-bipy)Zn2As8V12O40(H2O)].3H2O (2), [[Zn(en)3]2[Zn2As8V12O40(H2O)]].4H2O.0.25bipy (3) and [Zn2(en)5][[Zn(en)2][(bpe)HZn2As8V12O40(H2O)]2].7H2O (4) [en = ethylenediamine, Meen = 1,2-diaminopropane, 4,4'-bipy = 4,4'-bipyridine, and bpe = 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane] constructed from organically modified Zn-substituted polyoxovanadates and zinc organoamine subunits have been synthesized. Each anion cluster of compound 1 is directly linked by the 4,4'-bipy ligand into a one-dimensional (1D) straight chain. The secondary metal complex [Zn(Meen)2]2+ acts as an isolated countercation. The 1D chain structure of 2 is similar to that of 1 but sinuate because of the secondary metal complex [Zn(en)2]2+ decorated on the anion cluster. The en ligands covalently bonding to the surface anion of 3 not only support the secondary metal complex [Zn(en)2]2+ but also coordinate to another anion through the secondary metal complex [Zn(en)2]2+ bridge to form an "eight-shaped" chiral helix. The unprecedented 2D layer of compound 4 with large nanosized inner rectangular cavities [33.669(6) x 14.720(8) A] is successfully achieved through the anion clusters polymerized first into chains by flexible organic ligands and then secondary metal complexes bridged between the chains. The different coordination abilities and geometries of the bidentate organodiamine ligands used in the four-reaction systems play important roles in the formation of the final structures: from straight chains to sinuate chains, to helical chiral chains, and finally to a 2D layer with helices.     

Reactive sulfur species: kinetics and mechanism of the equilibrium between cysteine sulfenyl thiocyanate and cysteine thiosulfinate ester in acidic aqueous solution

The kinetics and mechanism of the hydrolysis of cysteine sulfenyl thiocyanate (CySSCN) to give cysteine thiosulfinate ester (CyS(=O)SCy) have been investigated between pH 0 and 4. The reaction is reversible. The hydrolysis of CySSCN is second-order in [CySSCN] and inverse first-order in [H+] and [SCN-]. The following mechanism is proposed for the hydrolysis of CySSCN (where the charge depends upon the pH): CySSCN0/+ + H2O <==>CySOH0/+ + SCN- + H+, CySOH0/+ + CySSCN0/+ --> CyS(=O)SCy0/+/2+ + SCN- + H+; k1 = 3.36 +/- 0.01 x 10-3 s-1, K1k2 = 0.13 +/- 0.05 Ms-1 (which yields k2/k-1 = 39 M). The observed rate law rules out alternative mechanisms for 1 0.4 M). The following mechanism is proposed: CyS(=O)SCy2+ + H+ <==> CyS(OH)=SCy3+, Ka; CyS(OH)SCy3+ + SCN- --> CySOH+ + CySSCN+, k-2 = 0.239 +/- 0.007 M-2s-1/Ka M-1. Since cysteine sulfenic acids are known to play an important function in many enzymes, and SCN- exists in abundance in physiologic fluids, we discuss the possible role of sulfenyl thiocyanates in vivo.     

A variety of spin-crossover behaviors depending on the counter anion: two-dimensional complexes constructed by NH...Cl- hydrogen bonds, [FeIIH3LMe]Cl.X (X = PF6 -, AsF6 -, SbF6 -, CF3SO3 -; H3L(Me) = Tris[2-{[(2-methylimidazol-4-yl)methylidene]amino}ethyl]amine)

A family of spin-crossover (SC) complexes, [Fe(II)H(3)L(Me)]Cl.X (X(-) = PF(6) (-), AsF(6) (-), SbF(6) (-), CF(3)SO(3) (-)), 1-4, has been synthesized, in which H(3)L(Me) denotes the hexadentate N(6) tripod-like ligand tris[2-{[(2-methylimidazol-4-yl)methylidene]amino}ethyl]amine, containing three imidazole groups, with a view to establishing the effect of the counter anion on the SC behavior. These complexes have been found to crystallize in the same monoclinic crystal system with similar cell dimensions. The general crystal structure consists of a two-dimensional (2D) extended network constructed by NH...Cl- hydrogen bonds between Cl- and the imidazole NH groups of three neighboring [Fe(II)H(3)L(Me)]2+ ions, while the anion X exists as an isolated counter anion and occupies the space between the 2D sheets. Magnetic susceptibilities and M?ssbauer spectra have revealed a variety of SC behaviors depending on the counter anion, including a one-step HS<==>(HS + LS)/2 (1, X = PF(6) (-)), a two-step HS<==>(HS + LS)/2<==>LS with a slow thermal relaxation (2, X = AsF(6) (-)), a gradual one-step HS<==>LS (3, X = SbF(6) (-)), and a steep one-step HS<==>LS with hysteresis (4, X = CF(3)SO(3) (-)). The complexes assume the space group P2(1)/n in the HS state, P2(1) in the HS + LS state, and P2(1)/n in the LS state. The Fe-N bond lengths and the N-Fe-N bond angles are indicative of the HS, HS + LS, and LS states. The molecular volumes, V, of the counter anions have been evaluated by quantum-chemical calculations as follows: 53.4 A(3) (BF(4) (-)), 54.4 A(3) (ClO(4) (-)), 73.0 A(3) (PF(6) (-)), 78.5 A(3) (AsF(6) (-)), 88.7 A(3) (SbF(6) (-)), and 86.9 A(3) (CF(3)SO(3) (-)). The size and shape of the counter anion affects the flexible 2D network structure constructed by the hydrogen bonds, leading to modifications of the SC behavior. These estimated relative sizes of the counter anions correlate well with the observed SC behaviors.     

Kinetics and mechanisms of the oxidation of iodide and bromide in aqueous solutions by a trans-dioxoruthenium(VI) complex

The kinetics and mechanisms of the oxidation of I (-) and Br (-) by trans-[Ru (VI)(N 2O 2)(O) 2] (2+) have been investigated in aqueous solutions. The reactions have the following stoichiometry: trans-[Ru (VI)(N 2O 2)(O) 2] (2+) + 3X (-) + 2H (+) --> trans-[Ru (IV)(N 2O 2)(O)(OH 2)] (2+) + X 3 (-) (X = Br, I). In the oxidation of I (-) the I 3 (-)is produced in two distinct phases. The first phase produces 45% of I 3 (-) with the rate law d[I 3 (-)]/dt = ( k a + k b[H (+)])[Ru (VI)][I (-)]. The remaining I 3 (-) is produced in the second phase which is much slower, and it follows first-order kinetics but the rate constant is independent of [I (-)], [H (+)], and ionic strength. In the proposed mechanism the first phase involves formation of a charge-transfer complex between Ru (VI) and I (-), which then undergoes a parallel acid-catalyzed oxygen atom transfer to produce [Ru (IV)(N 2O 2)(O)(OHI)] (2+), and a one electron transfer to give [Ru (V)(N 2O 2)(O)(OH)] (2+) and I (*). [Ru (V)(N 2O 2)(O)(OH)] (2+) is a stronger oxidant than [Ru (VI)(N 2O 2)(O) 2] (2+) and will rapidly oxidize another I (-) to I (*). In the second phase the [Ru (IV)(N 2O 2)(O)(OHI)] (2+) undergoes rate-limiting aquation to produce HOI which reacts rapidly with I (-) to produce I 2. In the oxidation of Br (-) the rate law is -d[Ru (VI)]/d t = {( k a2 + k b2[H (+)]) + ( k a3 + k b3[H (+)]) [Br (-)]}[Ru (VI)][Br (-)]. At 298.0 K and I = 0.1 M, k a2 = (2.03 +/- 0.03) x 10 (-2) M (-1) s (-1), k b2 = (1.50 +/- 0.07) x 10 (-1) M (-2) s (-1), k a3 = (7.22 +/- 2.19) x 10 (-1) M (-2) s (-1) and k b3 = (4.85 +/- 0.04) x 10 (2) M (-3) s (-1). The proposed mechanism involves initial oxygen atom transfer from trans-[Ru (VI)(N 2O 2)(O) 2] (2+) to Br (-) to give trans-[Ru (IV)(N 2O 2)(O)(OBr)] (+), which then undergoes parallel aquation and oxidation of Br (-), and both reactions are acid-catalyzed.     

Binding of nitrate to a CuII-cyclen complex bearing a ferrocenyl pendant: synthesis, solid-state X-ray structure, and solution-phase electrochemical and spectrophotometric studies

The reaction of Cu(NO3)2.3H2O with the ligand 1-(ferrocenemethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (L) in acetonitrile leads to the formation of a blue complex, [Cu(L)(NO3)][NO3] (C1). The X-ray structure determination shows an unexpected binding of a nitrate anion in that the CuII center is surrounded by four N atoms of the 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (cyclen) macrocycle and two O atoms from a chelating nitrate anion, both Cu-O distances being below the sums of the van de Waals radii. Hydrogen-bonding interactions in the crystal lattice and a weak interaction between a second nitrate O and the CuII center in C1 give rise to a highly distorted CuII geometry relative to that found in the known structure of [Cu(cyclen)(NO3)][NO3] (C5). Electrochemical studies in acetonitrile containing 0.1 M [Bu4N][NO3] as the supporting electrolyte showed that oxidation of C1 in this medium exhibits a single reversible one-electron step with a formal potential E degrees f of +85 mV vs Fc0/+ (Fc = ferrocene). This process is associated with oxidation of the ferrocenyl pendant group. Additionally, a reversible one-electron reduction reaction with an E degrees f value of -932 mV vs Fc0/+, attributed to the CuII/I redox couple, is detected. Gradual change of the supporting electrolyte from 0.1 M [Bu4N][NO3] to the poorly coordinating [Bu4N][PF6] electrolyte, at constant ionic strength, led to a positive potential shift in E degrees f values by +107 and +39 mV for the CuII/I(C1) and Fc0/+(C1) redox couples, respectively. Analysis of these electrochemical data and UV-vis spectra is consistent with the probable presence of the complexes C1, [Cu(L)(CH3CN)2]2+ (C2), [Cu(L)(CH3CN)(NO3)]+ (C3), and [Cu(L)(NO3)2] (C4) as the major species in nitrate-containing acetonitrile solutions. In weakly solvating nitromethane, the extent of nitrate complexation remains significant even at low nitrate concentrations, due to the lack of solvent competition.     

Catalase-peroxidase activity of iron(III)-TAML activators of hydrogen peroxide

Exceptionally high peroxidase-like and catalase-like activities of iron(III)-TAML activators of H 2O 2 ( 1: Tetra-Amidato-Macrocyclic-Ligand Fe (III) complexes [ F e{1,2-X 2C 6H 2-4,5-( NCOCMe 2 NCO) 2CR 2}(OH 2)] (-)) are reported from pH 6-12.4 and 25-45 degrees C. Oxidation of the cyclometalated 2-phenylpyridine organometallic complex, [Ru (II)( o-C 6H 4py)(phen) 2]PF 6 ( 2) or "ruthenium dye", occurs via the equation [ Ru II ] + 1/2 H 2 O 2 + H +-->(Fe III - TAML) [ Ru III ] + H 2 O, following a simple rate law rate = k obs (per)[ 1][H 2O 2], that is, the rate is independent of the concentration of 2 at all pHs and temperatures studied. The kinetics of the catalase-like activity (H 2 O 2 -->(Fe III - TAML) H 2 O + 1/2 O 2) obeys a similar rate law: rate = k obs (cat)[ 1][H 2O 2]). The rate constants, k obs (per) and k obs (cat), are strongly and similarly pH dependent, with a maximum around pH 10. Both bell-shaped pH profiles are quantitatively accounted for in terms of a common mechanism based on the known speciation of 1 and H 2O 2 in this pH range. Complexes 1 exist as axial diaqua species [FeL(H 2O) 2] (-) ( 1 aqua) which are deprotonated to afford [FeL(OH)(H 2O)] (2-) ( 1 OH) at pH 9-10. The pathways 1 aqua + H 2O 2 ( k 1), 1 OH + H 2O 2 ( k 2), and 1 OH + HO 2 (-) ( k 4) afford one or more oxidized Fe-TAML species that further rapidly oxidize the dye (peroxidase-like activity) or a second H 2O 2 molecule (catalase-like activity). This mechanism is supported by the observations that (i) the catalase-like activity of 1 is controllably retarded by addition of reducing agents into solution and (ii) second order kinetics in H 2O 2 has been observed when the rate of O 2 evolution was monitored in the presence of added reducing agents. The performances of the 1 complexes in catalyzing H 2O 2 oxidations are shown to compare favorably with the peroxidases further establishing Fe (III)-TAML activators as miniaturized enzyme replicas with the potential to greatly expand the technological utility of hydrogen peroxide.     

Chemical properties of the Pd4(dppm)4(H)2(2+) cluster and the homogeneous electrocatalytical behavior of hydrogen evolution and formate decomposition

Two new reductive electrochemical (CO2 + H2O + 2e-; HCO2H + 2e-) and two new chemical methods (Al(CH3)3 + proton donor; NaO2CH) to prepare the title compound from Pd2(dppm)2Cl2 are reported. For the latter method, an intermediate species formulated as Pd2(dppm)4(O2CH)2(2+) is identified spectroscopically (1H NMR, 31P NMR, IR, and FAB-MS). Limited stability of the title compound in the presence of Cl- and Br- as counteranions is noticed and is due to sensitivity of the cluster toward nucleophilic attack of the halide ions. This result is corroborated by the rapid decomposition of these clusters in the presence of CN- to form the binuclear species Pd2(dppm)2(CN)4 and by the preparation of the stable salts [Pd4(dppm)4(H)2](X)2(X- = BF4-, PF6-, BPh4-). Upon a two-electron electrochemical reduction of this cluster to the neutral species (E1/2 = -1.42 V vs SCE in DMF) in the presence of 1 equiv of HCO2H, a highly reactive species formulated as [Pd4(dppm)4(H)3]+ is generated and characterized by 1H NMR, 31P NMR, and cyclic voltammetry. Subsequent addition of H+ (via RCO2H; R = H, CH3, CF3, C6H5) under the same reducing conditions, induces the homogeneous catalysis of H2 evolution. The turnover number is found to be 134 in 2 h, with no evidence for catalyst decomposition. This same species also exhibits a one-electron oxidation process (E1/2 = -0.61 V vs SCE in DMF) that induces the catalytical decomposition of formate (HCO2- --> CO2 + 1/2H2 + 1e-). This double catalysis from the same cluster intermediate is unprecedented.