Three Keggin-based complexes modified by an asymmetric ligand: structures,electrochemical, photocatalytic and fluorescence sensing properties

By using an asymmetric ligand with triazole and imidazole groups, three Keggin-based complexes were obtained, Cu(HMET)₄(H₂O)₂](PMo₁₂O₄₀)₂·2H₂O (1), Cu₃(HMET)₄Cl₂(H₂O)₂(XM₁₂O₄₀)₂]·4H₂O (X?=?Si, M?=?W 2, X?=?Ge, M?=?Mo 3) (MET?=?4-(2-imidazol-1-yl-ethyl)-4H-1,3,4]triazole). Complex 1 contains discrete Keggin anions and mono-nuclear Cu(MET)₄(H₂O)₂]²⁺ clusters. Complexes 2 and 3 are isostructural with tri-nuclear Cu clusters linked by Keggin anions to construct a 1D chain. The 1- to 3-CPEs show electrocatalytic properties and can also act as nitrite amperometric sensors. Complexes 1–3 exhibit photocatalytic activities for degradation of MB. Complexes 1–?3 own fluorescence sensing properties for detecting Hg²⁺ ions.

Graphical abstract

By using an asymmetric ligand three POM-based complexes were constructed. The 1– to 3–CPEs exhibit good electrocatalytic activities and can be used as nitrite amperometric sensors. The title complexes show good photocatalytic activities for degradation of MB. Moreover, complexes 1–3 can act as fluorescence sensors to selectively detect Hg²⁺.