Supramolecular squares with Mo2(4+) corners

Seven complexes obtained by reacting the quadruply bonded complex Mo2(cis-DAniF)2(CH3CN)4](BF4)2 (DAniF = N,N'-di-p-anisylformamidinate) and (Bun4N+)2(Carb2-), where Carb2- is a dicarboxylate anion, have been found to have a ratio of dimetal unit to dicarboxylate of 1:1. As noted by the carboxylate linker, the compounds are oxalate, 1, fumarate, 2, ferrocene dicarboxylate, 3, 4,4'-biphenyldicarboxylate, 4, acetylenedicarboxylate, 5, tetrafluorophthalate, 6, and carborane dicarboxylate, 7. Structural characterization of 1-4 revealed a square of dimolybdenum units linked by the dicarboxylate anions, each having an interstice capable of accommodating specific solvent molecules. Results of NMR studies of all seven compounds are consistent with the presence of a highly symmetrical structure. These compounds display a rich electrochemical behavior that is affected by the nature of the carboxylate group.