Nickel(II)-molybdenum(III)-cyanide clusters: synthesis and magnetic behavior of species incorporating [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CN)(3)

The substitution of Mo(III) for Cr(III) in metal-cyanide clusters is demonstrated as an effective means of increasing the strength of the magnetic exchange coupling and introducing magnetic anisotropy. Synthesis of the octahedral complex [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CN)(3)] (Me(3)tacn = N,N',N"-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane) is accomplished with the addition of precisely 3 equiv of LiCN to a solution of [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CF(3)SO(3))(3)] in DMF. An excess of LiCN prompts formation of a seven-coordinate complex, [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CN)(4)](1)(-), whereas less LiCN produces multinuclear species such as [(Me(3)tacn)(2)Mo(2)(CN)(5)](1+). In close parallel to reactions previously performed with [(Me(3)tacn)Cr(CN)(3)], assembly reactions between [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CN)(3)] and [Ni(H(2)O)(6)](2+) or [(cyclam)Ni(H(2)O)(2)](2+) (cyclam = 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) afford face-centered cubic [(Me(3)tacn)(8)Mo(8)Ni(6)(CN)(24)](12+) and linear [(Me(3)tacn)(2)(cyclam)NiMo(2)(CN)(6)](2+) clusters, respectively. Generation of the former involves a thermally induced cyanide linkage isomerization, which rapidly leads to a low-spin form of the cluster containing diamagnetic Ni(II) centers. The cyclic voltammagram of this species in DMF reveals a sequence of six successive reduction waves spaced approximately 130 mV apart, suggesting class II mixed-valence behavior upon reduction. The magnetic properties of the aforementioned linear cluster are consistent with the expected ferromagnetic coupling and an S = 4 ground state, but otherwise vary slightly with the specific conformation adopted (as influenced by the packing of associated counteranions and solvate molecules in the crystal). Magnetization data indicate an axial zero-field splitting parameter with a magnitude falling in the range [D] = 0.44-0.72 cm(-1), and fits to the magnetic susceptibility data yield exchange coupling constants in the range J = 17.0-17.6 cm(-1). These values represent significant increases over those displayed by the analogous Cr(III)-containing cluster. When perchlorate is used as a counteranion, [(Me(3)tacn)(2)(cyclam)NiMo(2)(CN)(6)](2+) crystallizes from water in a dimeric form with pairs of the linear clusters directly linked via hydrogen bonding. In this case, fitting the magnetic susceptibility data requires use of two coupling constants: one intramolecular with J = 14.9 cm(-1) and another intermolecular with J' = -1.9 cm(-1). Reacting [(Me(3)tacn)Mo(CN)(3)] with a large excess of [(cyclam)Ni(H(2)O)(2)](2+) produces a [(Me(3)tacn)(2)(cyclam)(3)(H(2)O)(2)Ni(3)Mo(2)(CN)(6)](6+) cluster possessing a zigzag structure that is a simple extension of the linear cluster geometry. Its magnetic behavior is consistent with weaker ferromagnetic coupling and an S = 6 ground state. Similar reactions employing an equimolar ratio of reactants afford related one-dimensional chains of formula [(Me(3)tacn)(cyclam)NiMo(CN)(3)](2+). Once again, the ensuing structure depends on the associated counteranions, and the magnetic behavior indicates ferromagnetic coupling. It is hoped that substitutions of the type exemplified here will be of utility in the design of new single-molecule magnets.     

High-nuclearity metal-cyanide clusters: synthesis,magnetic properties,and inclusion behavior of open-cage species incorporating [(tach)M(CN)3] (M = Cr,Fe, Co) complexes

The use of 1,3,5-triaminocyclohexane (tach) as a capping ligand in generating metal-cyanide cage clusters with accessible cavities is demonstrated. The precursor complexes [(tach)M(CN)(3)] (M = Cr, Fe, Co) are synthesized by methods similar to those employed in preparing the analogous 1,4,7-triazacyclononane (tacn) complexes. Along with [(tach)Fe(CN)(3)](1)(-), the latter two species are found to adopt low-spin electron configurations. Assembly reactions between [(tach)M(CN)(3)] (M = Fe, Co) and [M'(H(2)O)(6)](2+) (M' = Ni, Co) in aqueous solution afford the clusters [(tach)(4)(H(2)O)(12)Ni(4)Co(4)(CN)(12)](8+), [(tach)(4)(H(2)O)(12)Co(8)(CN)(12)](8+), and [(tach)(4)(H(2)O)(12)Ni(4)Fe(4)(CN)(12)](8+), each possessing a cubic arrangement of eight metal ions linked through edge-spanning cyanide bridges. This geometry is stabilized by hydrogen-bonding interactions between tach and water ligands through an intervening solvate water molecule or bromide counteranion. The magnetic behavior of the Ni(4)Fe(4) cluster indicates weak ferromagnetic coupling (J = 5.5 cm(-)(1)) between the Ni(II) and Fe(III) centers, leading to an S = 6 ground state. Solutions containing [(tach)Fe(CN)(3)] and a large excess of [Ni(H(2)O)(6)](2+) instead yield a trigonal pyramidal [(tach)(H(2)O)(15)Ni(3)Fe(CN)(3)](6+) cluster, in which even weaker ferromagnetic coupling (J = 1.2 cm(-)(1)) gives rise to an S = (7)/(2) ground state. Paralleling reactions previously performed with [(Me(3)tacn)Cr(CN)(3)], [(tach)Cr(CN)(3)] reacts with [Ni(H(2)O)(6)](2+) in aqueous solution to produce [(tach)(8)Cr(8)Ni(6)(CN)(24)](12+), featuring a structure based on a cube of Cr(III) ions with each face centered by a square planar [Ni(CN)(4)](2)(-) unit. The metal-cyanide cage differs somewhat from that of the analogous Me(3)tacn-ligated cluster, however, in that it is distorted via compression along a body diagonal of the cube. Additionally, the compact tach capping ligands do not hinder access to the sizable interior cavity of the molecule, permitting host-guest chemistry. Mass spectrometry experiments indicate a 1:1 association of the intact cluster with tetrahydrofuran (THF) in aqueous solution, and a crystal structure shows the THF molecule to be suspended in the middle of the cluster cavity. Addition of THF to an aqueous solution containing [(tach)Co(CN)(3)] and [Cu(H(2)O)(6)](2+) templates the formation of a closely related cluster, [(tach)(8)(H(2)O)(6)Cu(6)Co(8)(CN)(24) superset THF](12+), in which paramagnetic Cu(II) ions with square pyramidal coordination are situated on the face-centering sites. Reactions intended to produce the cubic [(tach)(4)(H(2)O)(12)Co(8)(CN)(12)](8+) cluster frequently led to an isomeric two-dimensional framework, [(tach)(H(2)O)(3)Co(2)(CN)(3)](2+), exhibiting mer rather than fac stereochemistry at the [Co(H(2)O)(3)](2+) subunits. Attempts to assemble larger edge-bridged cubic clusters by reacting [(tach)Cr(CN)(3)] with [Ni(cyclam)](2+) (cyclam = 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) complexes instead generated extended one- or two-dimensional solids. The magnetic properties of one of these solids, two-dimensional [(tach)(2)(cyclam)(3)Ni(3)Cr(2)(CN)(6)]I(2), suggest metamagnetic behavior, with ferromagnetic intralayer coupling and weak antiferromagnetic interactions between layers.     

Grid-type two-dimensional magnetic multinuclear metal complex: strands of ([CuII(mu-4,4'-bpy)]2+)n cross-linked by octacyanotungstate(V) ions

Reaction of the preorganized strands of ([Cu(II)(mu-4,4'-bpy)](2+))n (4,4'-bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine) with [W(V)(CN)(8)](3)(-) leads to a novel cyano-bridged Cu(II)(3)W(V)(2) complex [Cu(mu-4,4'-bpy)(DMF)(2)][Cu(mu-4,4'-bpy)(DMF)](2)[W(V)(CN)(8)](2).2DMF. 2H(2)O 1. The structure of 1 consists of the expected 2-dimensional grid-type network which is built of infinite ([Cu(II)(mu-4,4'-bpy)](2+))n chains cross-linked by octacyanotungstate units. The Cu(II)-NC-W(V)-CN-Cu(II) linkage exhibits the topology of a 3,2-chain. The skeleton of the layer is additionally stabilized by a hydrogen bond network formed by terminal cyano ligands of the [W(CN)(8)](3-) moiety and water molecules. The distance between the adjacent Cu(3)(II)W(2)(V) chains within the layer is 11.12 A along the a axis. The layers are connected by H-bonds of NCN-NDMF-NCN linkages into 3-D supramolecular architecture. The magnetic properties correspond to a dominant ferromagnetic coupling within the Cu(II)(3)W(V)(2) pentamer units (J = +35(4) cm(-1)) and much weaker effective AF interunit coupling which include both intra- and inter-3,2-chain interactions between pentamers (J' = -0.05(1) cm(-1)).     

Cyano-bridged bimetallic assemblies from hexacyanometalate, [M(CN)6](3-) (M = Mn(III) and Fe(III)), and [M(N4-macrocycle)]2+ (M=Fe(III), Ni(II) and Zn(II)) building blocks. Syntheses, multidimensional structures, and magnetic properties

Reactions between [M(N(4)-macrocycle)](2+) (M = Zn(II) and Ni(II); macrocycle ligands are either CTH = d,l-5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane or cyclam = 1,4, 8, 11-tetrazaazaciclotetradecane) and [M(CN)(6)](3-) (M = Fe(III) and Mn(III)) give rise to cyano-bridged assemblies with 1D linear chain and 2D honeycomblike structures. The magnetic measurements on the 1D linear chain complex [Fe(cyclam)][Fe(CN)(6)].6H(2)O 1 points out its metamagnetic behavior, where the ferromagnetic interaction operates within the chain and the antiferromagnetic one between chains. The Neel temperature, T(N), is 5.5 K and the critical field at 2 K is 1 T. The unexpected ferromagnetic intrachain interaction can be rationalized on the basis of the axially elongated octahedral geometry of the low spin Fe(III) ion of the [Fe(cyclam)](3+) unit. The isostructural substitution of [Fe(CN)(6)](3-) by [Mn(CN)(6)](3-) in the previously reported complex [Ni(cyclam)](3)[Fe(CN)(6)](2).12H(2)O 2 leads to [Ni(cyclam)](3)[Mn(CN)(6)](2).16 H(2)O 3, which exhibits a corrugated 2D honeycomblike structure and a metamagnetic behavior with T(N) = 16 K and a critical field of 1 T. In the ferromagnetic phase (H > 1 T) this compound shows a very important coercitive field of 2900 G at 2 K. Compound [Ni(CTH)](3)[Fe(CN)(6)](2).13H(2)O 4, C(60)H(116)Fe(2)N(24)Ni(3)O(13), monoclinic, A 2/n, a = 20.462(7), b = 16.292(4), c = 27.262(7) A, beta = 101.29(4) degrees, Z = 4, also has a corrugated 2D honeycomblike structure and a ferromagnetic intralayer interaction, but, in contrast to 2 and 3, does not exhibit any magnetic ordering. This fact is likely due to the increase of the interlayer separation in this compound. ([Zn(cyclam)Fe(CN)(6)Zn(cyclam)] [Zn(cyclam)Fe(CN)(6)].22H(2)O.EtOH) 5, C(44)H(122)Fe(2)N(24)O(23)Zn(3), monoclinic, A 2/n, a = 14.5474(11), b = 37.056(2), c = 14.7173(13) A, beta = 93.94(1) degrees, Z = 4, presents an unique structure made of anionic linear chains containing alternating [Zn(cyclam)](2+) and [Fe(CN)(6)](3)(-) units and cationic trinuclear units [Zn(cyclam)Fe(CN)(6)Zn(cyclam)](+). Their magnetic properties agree well with those expected for two [Fe(CN)(6)](3-) units with spin-orbit coupling effect of the low spin iron(III) ions.     

Synthesis, characterization, and photoresponsive properties of a series of Mo(IV)-Cu(II) complexes

Six Mo(IV)-Cu(II) complexes, [Cu(tpa)](2)[Mo(CN)(8)]·15H(2)O (1, tpa = tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine), [Cu(tren)](2)[Mo(CN)(8)]·5.25H(2)O (2, tren = tris(2-aminoethyl)amine), [Cu(en)(2)][Cu(0.5)(en)][Cu(0.5)(en)(H(2)O)][Mo(CN)(8)]·4H(2)O (3, en = ethylenediamine), [Cu(bapa)](3)[Mo(CN)(8)](1.5)·12.5H(2)O (4, bapa = bis(3-aminopropyl)amine), [Cu(bapen)](2)[Mo(CN)(8)]·4H(2)O (5, bapen = N,N'-bis(3-aminopropyl)ethylenediamine), and [Cu(pn)(2)][Cu(pn)][Mo(CN)(8)]·3.5H(2)O (6, pn = 1,3-diaminopropane), were synthesized and characterized. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses show that 1-6 have different structures varying from trinuclear clusters (1-2), a one-dimensional belt (3), two-dimensional grids (4-5), to a three-dimensional structure (6). Magnetic and ESR measurements suggest that 1-6 exhibit thermally reversible photoresponsive properties on UV light irradiation through a Mo(IV)-to-Cu(II) charge transfer mechanism. A trinuclear compound [Cu(II)(tpa)](2)[Mo(V)(CN)(8)](ClO(4)) (7) was synthesized as a model of the photoinduced intermediate.     

Record ferromagnetic exchange through cyanide and elucidation of the magnetic phase diagram for a Cu(II)Re(IV)(CN)2 chain compound

Reaction of the high-magnetic anisotropy building unit [ReCl(4)(CN)(2)](2-) with [Cu(MeCN)(6)](2+) and hydrotris(pyrazol-1-yl)borate (Tp(-)) affords the zigzag chain compound (Bu(4)N)[TpCuReCl(4)(CN)(2)]. Dc magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal the presence of ferromagnetic exchange coupling between Re(IV) and Cu(II) centers along each chain and a fit to the data gives an exchange constant of J/k(B) = +41 K (+29 cm(-1)), representing the strongest ferromagnetic coupling yet observed through cyanide. Below 11.4 K and at applied fields of less than 3600 Oe, the compound undergoes a phase transition to an antiferromagnetic ground state, stemming from weak π-π interchain interactions of strength J(⊥)/k(B) = -1.7 K (-1.2 cm(-1)). This metamagnetic behavior is fully elucidated using both experimental and theoretical methods. In addition, theoretical modeling provides a detailed determination of the local anisotropy tensors corresponding to the [ReCl(4)(CN)(2)](2-) units and demonstrates that the zigzag arrangement of the Re(IV) centers significantly reduces the effective anisotropy of the chain. These results demonstrate the utility of the Re(IV)-CN-Cu(II) linkage and the importance of anisotropic spin orientation in designing strongly coupled systems, which will aid in both the realization of single-chain magnets with higher relaxation barriers and in the construction of high-dimensional cyano-bridged materials exhibiting higher ordering temperatures.     

Cyano-bridged homodinuclear copper(II) complexes

The synthesis and structural analysis (single crystal X-ray data) of two mononuclear ([Cu(L(1))(CN)]BF(4) and [Cu(L(3))(CN)](BF(4))) and three related, cyanide-bridged homodinuclear complexes ([{Cu(L(1))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3)·1.35 H(2)O, [{Cu(L(2))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3) and [{Ni(L(3))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3)) with a tetradentate (L(1)) and two isomeric pentadentate bispidine ligands (L(2), L(3); bispidines are 3,7-diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane derivatives) are reported, together with experimental magnetic, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and electronic spectroscopic data and a ligand-field-theory-based analysis. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibilities and EPR transitions of the dicopper(II) complexes, together with the simulation of the EPR spectra of the mono- and dinuclear complexes leads to an anisotropic set of g- and A-values, zero-field splitting (ZFS) and magnetic exchange parameters (Cu1: g(z) = 2.055, g(x) = 2.096, g(y) = 2.260, A(z) = 8, A(x) = 8, A(y) = 195 × 10(-4) cm(-1), Cu2: g and A as for Cu(1) but rotated by the Euler angles α = -6°, β = 100°, D(exc) = -0.07 cm(-1), E(exc)/D(exc) = 0.205 for [{Cu(L(1))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3)·1.35 H(2)O; Cu1,2: g(z) = 2.025, g(x) = 2.096, g(y) = 2.240, A(z) = 8, A(x) = 8, A(y) = 190 × 10(-4)cm(-1), D(exc) = -0.159 cm(-1), E(exc)/D(exc) = 0.080 for [{Cu(L(2))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3)). Thorough ligand-field-theory-based analyses, involving all micro states and all relevant interactions (Jahn-Teller and spin-orbit coupling) and DFT calculations of the magnetic exchange leads to good agreement between the experimental observations and theoretical predictions. The direction of the symmetric magnetic anisotropy tensor D(exc) in [{Cu(L(2))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3) is close to the Cu···Cu vector (22°), that is, nearly perpendicular to the Jahn-Teller axis of each of the two Cu(II) centers, and this reflects the crystallographically observed geometry. Antisymmetric exchange in [{Cu(L(1))}(2)(CN)](BF(4))(3)·1.35 H(2)O causes a mixing between the singlet ground state and the triplet excited state, and this also reflects the observed geometry with a rotation of the two Cu(II) sites around the Cu···Cu axis.     

Encapsulation of cyanometalates by a tris-macrocyclic ligand tricopper(II) complex: syntheses, structural variation, and magnetic exchange coupling pathways

The reaction of [M(CN)(6)](3-) (M = Cr(3+), Mn(3+), Fe(3+), Co(3+)) and [M(CN)(8)](4-/3-) (M = Mo(4+/5+), W(4+/5+)) with the trinuclear copper(II) complex of 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triyltris[3-(1,3,5,8,12-pentaazacyclotetradecane)] ([Cu(3)(L)](6+)) leads to partially encapsulated cyanometalates. With hexacyanometalate(III) complexes, [Cu(3)(L)](6+) forms the isostructural host-guest complexes [[[Cu(3)(L)(OH(2))(2)][M(CN)(6)](2)][M(CN)(6)]][M(CN)(6)]30 H(2)O with one bridging, two partially encapsulated, and one isolated [M(CN)(6)](3-) unit. The octacyanometalates of Mo(4+/5+) and W(4+/5+) are encapsulated by two tris-macrocyclic host units. Due to the stability of the +IV oxidation state of Mo and W, only assemblies with [M(CN)(8)](4-) were obtained. The Mo(4+) and W(4+) complexes were crystallized in two different structural forms: [[Cu(3)(L)(OH(2))](2)[Mo(CN)(8)]](NO(3))(8)15 H(2)O with a structural motif that involves isolated spherical [[Cu(3)(L)(OH(2))](2)[M(CN)(8)]](8+) ions and a "string-of-pearls" type of structure [[[Cu(3)(L)](2)[M(CN)(8)]][M(CN)(8)]](NO(3))(4) 20 H(2)O, with [M(CN)(8)](4-) ions that bridge the encapsulated octacyanometalates in a two-dimensional network. The magnetic exchange coupling between the various paramagnetic centers is characterized by temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility and field-dependent magnetization data. Exchange between the CuCu pairs in the [Cu(3)(L)](6+) "ligand" is weakly antiferromagnetic. Ferromagnetic interactions are observed in the cyanometalate assemblies with Cr(3+), exchange coupling of Mn(3+) and Fe(3+) is very small, and the octacoordinate Mo(4+) and W(4+) systems have a closed-shell ground state.     

Microwave-assisted construction of ferromagnetic coordination polymers of [W(V)(CN)8]3- with Cu(II)-pyrazole synthons

The microwave-mediated self-assembly of [W(V)(CN)(8)](3-) with Cu(II) in the presence of pyrazole ligand resulted in the formation of three novel assemblies: Cu(II)(2)(Hpyr)(5)(H(2)O)[W(V)(CN)(8)](NO(3))·H(2)O (1), {Cu(II)(5)(Hpyr)(18)[W(V)(CN)(8)](4)}·[Cu(II)(Hpyr)(4)(H(2)O)(2)]·9H(2)O (2), and Cu(II)(4)(Hpyr)(10)(H(2)O)[W(V)(CN)(8)](2)(HCOO)(2)·4.5H(2)O (3) (Hpyr =1H-pyrazole). Single-crystal X-ray structure of 1 consists of cyanido-bridged 1-D chains of vertex-sharing squares topology. The structure of 2 reveals 2-D hybrid inorganic layer topology with large coordination spaces occupied by {Cu(Hpyr)(2)(H(2)O)(4)}(2+) ions. Compound 3 contains two types of cyanido-bridged 1-D chains of vertex-sharing squares linked together by formate ions in two directions forming hybrid inorganic-organic 3-D framework (I(1)O(2)). The magnetic measurements for 1-3 reveal a weak ferromagnetic coupling through Cu(II)-NC-W(V) bridges.     

Au(CN)4]- as both an intramolecular and intermolecular bidentate ligand with [(tmeda)Cu(mu-OH)] dimers: from antiferro- to ferromagnetic coupling in polymorphs

Two polymorphic products, [[Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)}2Au(CN)4][Au(CN)4] (1) and [Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)Au(CN)4]2 (2), were synthesized from {Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)}(2)X(2) (tmeda = N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethylenediamine, X = ClO4-, BF4-) and 2 equiv of K[Au(CN)4], and their X-ray structures were determined. Both compounds have [Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)}2(2+) dimers with [Au(CN)4]- units bound in the axial positions. However, in 1, two trans N-donor cyanides of each [Au(CN)4]- unit bind to adjacent copper(II) dimers, forming a 1-D chain, whereas complex 2 is molecular, with two mono-coordinated [Au(CN)4]- units. The 1-D polymorph 1 is formed from aqueous solution, while the molecular polymorph 2 is obtained with X = BF4- in methanol. The polymorphs have slightly different Cu-O-Cu angles, a key magnetostructural parameter, such that the 1-D chain 1, with an angle of 96.6(2) degrees, shows ferromagnetic interactions with 2J = +57.5 cm(-1) and g = 2.097, whereas the molecular complex 2, with an angle of 98.92(17) degrees, shows antiferromagnetic interactions with 2J = -143.6 cm(-1) and g = 2.047. A similar Cu(II) complex, [[Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)]2Au(CN)4][ClO4].MeOH (3), was synthesized in methanol when X = ClO4-, in which the [Au(CN)4]- unit bridges the two Cu(II) centers within the dimer in an intramolecular fashion via cis N-donor cyanides. The average Cu-O-Cu angle of 98.4(2) degrees in 3 generates antiferromagnetic interactions with 2J = -64.8 cm(-1) and g = 2.214. Complexes 1-3 represent the first examples of [Cu(tmeda)(mu-OH)]2(2+) dimers with Cu-O-Cu angles under 100 degrees, thereby extending the range of 2J coupling constants for this moiety from 149 to 566 cm(-1). The switch to ferromagnetic interactions in 1 as a result of the coordinating, bridging [Au(CN)4]- anion suggests that cationic, dinuclear moieties that are typically antiferromagnetically coupled may, with an appropriate coordinating counterion, become ferromagnetic units.     

W-knotted chain {[Cu(II)(dien)]4[W(V)(CN)8]}(5+)∞: synthesis, crystal structure, magnetism, and theory

The self-assembly of [Cu(II)(dien)(H(2)O)(2)](2+) and [W(V)(CN)(8)](3-) in aqueous solution leads to the formation (H(3)O){[Cu(II)(dien)](4)[W(V)(CN)(8)]}[W(V)(CN)(8)](2)·6.5H(2)O (1). The crystal structure of 1 consists of an unprecedented {[Cu(II)(dien)](4)[W(V)(CN)(8)]}(5+)(∞) chain of (2,8) topology, nonbridging [W(CN)(8)](3-) anions, and crystallization water molecules. The analysis of magnetic behavior of 1 was performed by the density functional theory (DFT) method and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The DFT broken symmetry approach gave two J(CuW) coupling constants: J(ax) = +2.9 cm(-1) assigned to long and strongly bent W-CN-Cu linkage, and the J(eq) = +1.5 cm(-1) assigned to short and less bent W-CN-Cu linkage, located at the axial and the equatorial positions of square pyramidal Cu(II) centers, respectively, in the hexanuclear {W(2)Cu(4)} chain subunit. The dominance of weak-to-moderate ferromagnetic coupling within the chain was confirmed by magnetic calculations. Zero-field susceptibility of the full chain segment {WCu(4)}(n) was calculated by a semiclassical analytical approach assuming that only one W(V) out of five ? spins of the chain unit WCu(4) is treated as a classical commuting variable. The calculation of the field dependence of the magnetization was performed separately by replacing the same spin with the Ising variable and applying the standard transfer matrix technique. The intermolecular coupling between the chain segments and off-chain [W(CN)(8)](3-) entities was resolved using the mean-field approximation set to be of antiferromagnetic character. The magnetic coupling parameters are compared with those of other low dimensional {Cu(II)-[M(V)(CN)(8)]} systems.     

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.     

Cyanide-limited complexation of molybdenum(III): synthesis of octahedral [Mo(CN)(6)](3-) and cyano-bridged [Mo(2)(CN)(11)](5-)

Octahedral coordination of molybdenum(III) is achieved by limiting the amount of cyanide available upon complex formation. Reaction of Mo(CF(3)SO(3))(3) with LiCN in DMF affords Li(3)[Mo(CN)(6)] x 6DMF (1), featuring the previously unknown octahedral complex [Mo(CN)(6)](3-). The complex exhibits a room-temperature moment of mu(eff) = 3.80 mu(B), and assignment of its absorption bands leads to the ligand field parameters Delta(o) = 24800 cm(-1) and B = 247 cm(-1). Further restricting the available cyanide in a reaction between Mo(CF(3)SO(3))(3) and (Et(4)N)CN in DMF, followed by recrystallization from DMF/MeOH, yields (Et(4)N)(5)[Mo(2)(CN)(11)] x 2DMF x 2MeOH (2). The dinuclear [Mo(2)(CN)(11)](5-) complex featured therein contains two octahedrally coordinated Mo(III) centers spanned by a bridging cyanide ligand. A fit to the magnetic susceptibility data for 2, gives J = -113 cm(-1) and g = 2.33, representing the strongest antiferromagnetic coupling yet observed through a cyanide bridge. Efforts to incorporate these new complexes in magnetic Prussian blue-type solids are ongoing.     

An unprecedented copper(I,II)-octacyanotungstate(V) 2-D network: crystal structure and magnetism of [CuII(tren)]{CuI[W(V)(CN)8]} . 1.5H2O

A novel two-dimensional cyanide-bridged polymer [CuII(tren)]{CuI[W(V)(CN)8]} . 1.5H2O (tren = tris(2-aminoethyl)amine) formed via the simultaneous in situ metal-ligand redox reaction of [Cu(tren)(OH2)]2+ and self-assembly with [W(V)(CN)8]3- consists of a {CuI[W(V)(CN)8]} square grid built of CuI centres of tetrahedral geometry coordinatively saturated by CN bridges and [W(V)(CN)8]3- capped by [CuII(tren)]2+ moieties; it exhibits ferromagnetic coupling J1 = +5.8(1) cm(-1) within the CuII-W(V) dinuclear subunits and weak antiferromagnetic coupling J2 = -0.03(1) cm(-1) between them through diamagnetic CuI spacers.     

An unusual 3D-topology and dominant ferromagnetic couplings in two Cu(II)-azide coordination polymers

The coordination polymers [(Cu(N(3))(2))(2)Cu(N(3))(2)(methylpyrazine)(2)](n) 1 and [Cu(4-bromopyridine)(N(3))(2)](n) 2, were prepared from NaN(3), Cu(NO(3))(2).3H(2)O and nitrogen-containing heterocycles. 1 contains a three- and four-connected 3D (4.10(2))(2)(4(2).10(4))-dmd-net based on tetrahedral and trigonal planar nodes, whereas 2 is a sheet-structure formed by a uninodal three-connected 8(2).4 2D-net with additional BrBr (mean 3.903(2) A) and BrN(azide) (3.035(5) A) contacts. Both compounds contain end-on-type azide bridges, and 2 has in addition one end-to-end bridge as well. The corresponding magnetic interactions are J(1,2) = +14.9(6) cm(-1) for the end-on azido interactions in 1 with an additional -1.7 cm(-1) coupling through the pyrazine, and J(1) = 36(6) cm(-1) for the end-on azido interactions and J(2) = 2.5(1) cm(-1) for the orthogonal end-to-end azido interactions found in 2.     

Assembly of trinuclear and tetranuclear building units of Cu2+ towards two 1D magnetic systems: synthesis and magneto-structural correlations

Two new 1D coordination polymers, [Cu(3)(μ(3)-OH)(ppk)(3)(μ-N(CN)(2))(OAc)](n) (1) and {[Cu(4)(pdmH)(2)(pdm)(2)(μ(2)-OH)(H(2)O)]·ClO(4)}(n) (2) based on two different blocking ligands phenyl-2-pyridylketoxime (ppk) and pyridine-2,6-dimethanol (pdmH(2)) have been synthesized and were characterized by X-ray single crystal structural analysis. In compound 1, the hydroxido-bridged trinuclear core, {Cu(3)(μ(3)-OH)(ppk)(3)(OAc)}, acts as secondary building units and are connected by the N(CN)(2)(-) anions resulting in a one dimensional (1D) coordination polymer. The 1D coordination chains undergo π-π interactions giving rise to a 3D supramolecular framework. In compound 2, tetrameric [Cu(4)(pdmH)(2)(pdm)(2)(H(2)O)](2+) cores are linked via hydroxido groups forming a zigzag 1D coordination chain where non-coordinated ClO(4)(-) ions are intercalated between the chains. Variable temperature magnetic susceptibility study of suggests that Cu(II) ions in the trinuclear Cu(3)(μ(3)-OH) cores are antiferromagnetically coupled with J = -459.7 cm(-1) and g = 2.11 and the trinuclear cores are further weakly coupled antiferromagnetically (zj' = -5.25 cm(-1)) through the N(CN)(2)(-) bridging ligand. Investigation of the magnetic properties of reveals that Cu(II) ions are coupled antiferromagnetically in the tetranuclear core with J = -27.1 cm(-1) and g = 2.17; the Cu(II)(4) building units are further coupled antiferromagnetically with zj' = -9.65 cm(-1). The experimental magnetic behaviours of 1 and 2 are correlated by first principle DFT calculations which provide a qualitative understanding of the origin of antiferromagnetic interactions in both cases.     

Heterobimetallic coordination polymers incorporating [M(CN)(2)](-) (M = Cu,Ag) and [Ag(2)(CN)(3)](-) units: increasing structural dimensionality via M-M' and M...NC interactions

A series of new heterometallic coordination polymers has been prepared from the reaction of metal-ligand cations and KAg(CN)(2) units. Many of these contain silver-silver (argentophilic) interactions, analogous to gold-gold interactions, which serve to increase supramolecular structural dimensionality. Compared to [Au(CN)(2)](-) analogues, these polymers display new trends specific to [Ag(CN)(2)](-), including the formation of [Ag(2)(CN)(3)](-) and the presence of Ag...N interactions. [Cu(en)(2)][Ag(2)(CN)(3)][Ag(CN)(2)] (1, en = ethylenediamine) forms 1-D chains of alternating [Ag(CN)(2)](-) and [Ag(2)(CN)(3)](-) units via argentophilic interactions of 3.102(1) A. These chains are connected into a 2-D array by strong cyano(N)-Ag interactions of 2.572(3) A. [Cu(dien)Ag(CN)(2)](2)[Ag(2)(CN)(3)][Ag(CN)(2)] (2, dien = diethylenetriamine) forms a 1-D chain of alternating [Cu(dien)](2+) and [Ag(CN)(2)](-) ions with the Cu(II) atoms connected in an apical/equatorial fashion. These chains are cross-linked by [Ag(2)(CN)(3)](-) units via argentophilic interactions of 3.1718(8) A and held weakly in a 3-D array by argentophilic interactions of 3.2889(5) A between the [Ag(CN)(2)](-) in the 2-D array and the remaining free [Ag(CN)(2)](-). [Ni(en)][Ni(CN)(4)].2.5H(2)O (4) was identified as a byproduct in the reaction to prepare the previously reported [Ni(en)(2)Ag(2)(CN)(3)][Ag(CN)(2)] (3). In [Ni(tren)Ag(CN)(2)][Ag(CN)(2)] (5, tren = tris(2-aminoethyl)amine), [Ni(tren)](2+) cations are linked in a cis fashion by [Ag(CN)(2)](-) anions to form a 1-D chain similar to the [Au(CN)(2)](-) analogue. [Cu(en)Cu(CN)(2)Ag(CN)(2)] (6) is a trimetallic polymer consisting of interpenetrating (6,3) nets stabilized by d(10)-d(10) interactions between Cu(I)-Ag(I) (3.1000(4) A). Weak antiferromagnetic coupling has been observed in 2, and a slightly stronger exchange has been observed in 6. The Ni(II) complexes, 4 and 5, display weak antiferromagnetic interactions as indicated by their relatively larger D values compared to that of 3. Magnetic measurements on isostructural [Ni(tren)M(CN)(2)][M(CN)(2)] (M = Ag, Au) show that Ag(I) is a more efficient mediator of magnetic exchange as compared to Au(I). The formation of [Ni(CN)(4)](2)(-), [Ag(2)(CN)(3)](-), and [Cu(CN)(2)](-) are all attributed to secondary reactions of the dissociation products of the labile KAg(CN)(2).     

Interplay between covalent and aurophilic interactions in a series of isostructural 3D Hoffman-like frameworks containing bipyrimidine and dicyanoaurate bridges. X-Ray structure and magnetic properties of {(mu-Au(CN)(2)](2)[(M(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-bpym)]}[Au(CN)(2)](2) (M = Ni(II), Co(II) and Cu(II))

The isomorphous coordination polymers {micro-Au(CN)(2)](2)[(M(NH(3))(2))(2)(mu-bpym)]}[Au(CN)(2)](2) (M = Co(II) (1), Ni(II) (2), Cu(II) (3)) have been prepared from the reaction of 2 equiv. M(NO(3))(2) x nH(2)O (M = Cu(II), n = 3; M = Ni(II) and Co(II), n = 6) with 1 equiv. of bipyrimidine (bpym) in aqueous ammonia and then with an aqueous solution containing 1 equiv. of K[Au(CN)(2)]. The structures of these complexes are made of bpym bridged centrosymmetric dinuclear [M(NH(3))(2)(mu-bpym)M(NH(3))(2)] units connected by [Au(CN)(2)](-) anions to four other dinuclear units giving rise to a cationic 2D (4,4) rectangular grid network, its charge being balanced by two non-coordinated [Au(CN)(2)](-). The layers are stacked in such a way that the ammonia coordinated molecules are interdigitated and aligned above and below one sheet with cavities in neighbouring sheets, giving rise to an ABAB[dot dot dot] repeat pattern of layers. Gold atoms of bridging and non-bridging dicyanoaurate anions are involved in short aurophilic interactions (Au1-Au2 distances in the range 3.12-3.14 Angstrom), leading to a chain of gold atoms running along the a direction. Neighbouring gold chains are further connected by weaker aurophilic interactions (Au1-Au1 distances in the range 3.43-3.49 Angstrom), affording a honeycomb-like 2D network of gold atoms. The (4,4) rectangular sheets and (6,3) honeycomb sheets share the Au2 atoms, leading to a unique 3D network. Magnetic measurements clearly show the existence of antiferromagnetic exchange coupling between the metal ions with susceptibility maxima at 17 K (1), 22 K (2), and 17 K (3). The data of 1 were analyzed through a full Hamiltonian involving spin-orbit coupling, axial distortion, Zeeman interactions and magnetic exchange coupling between Co(II), and the best fit gives J = -9.23 cm(-1), kappa = 0.99, lambda = -142 cm(-1), Delta = -562 cm(-1). For 2 and 3, magnetic data were fitted to the theoretical equations derived from the isotropic Hamiltonian: H = -JS(1)S(2). The best fit parameters were g = 2.050(1), J = -17.51(1) and P = 0.01(2) for 2 and g = 2.068(5), J = -20.07(8) and P = 0.015(4) for 3, respectively (P takes into account the amount of paramagnetic impurity). In order to explain the weak magnetic interaction between copper(II) ions mediated by the bipyrimidine bridging ligand in 3, we have carried out electronic structure calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT).     

Hexacyanometalate molecular chemistry: heptanuclear heterobimetallic complexes; control of the ground spin state

Following a bottom-up approach to nanomaterials, we present a rational synthetic route from hexacyanometalates [M(CN)(6)](3-) (M=Cr(III), Co(III)) cores to well-defined heptanuclear complexes. By changing the nature of the metallic cations and using a localised orbital model it is possible to control and to tune the ground state spin value. Thus, with M=Cr(III), d(3), S=3/2, three heptanuclear species were built and characterised by mass spectrometry in solution, by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and by powder magnetic susceptibility measurements, [Cr(III)(CNbondM'L(n))(6)](9+) (M'=Cu(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), L(n)=polydentate ligand), showing spin ground states S(G)=9/2 [Cu(II)], with ferromagnetic interactions J(Cr,Cu)=+45 cm(-1), S(G)=15/2 [Ni(II)] and J(Cr,Ni)=+17.3 cm(-1), S(G)=27/2 [Mn(II)], with an antiferromagnetic interaction J(Cr,Mn)=-9 cm(-1), (interaction Hamiltonian H=-J(Cr,M) [S(Cr)Sigma(i)S(M)(i)], i=1-6). With M=Co(III), d(6), S=0, the heptanuclear analogues [Co(III)(CN-M'L(n))(6)](9+) (M'=Cu(II), Ni(II), Mn(II)) were similarly synthesised and studied. They present a singlet ground state and allow us to evaluate the weak antiferromagnetic coupling constant between two next-nearest neighbours M'-Co-M'.