Synthesis and properties in solution of ruthenium(II) coordination polymers

Synthetic strategies are presented for the preparation of readily soluble ruthenium(II) coordination polymers of high molecular weight. The constitutional homogeneity of the polymers is proved using high-resolution NMR spectroscopy, and their molar masses are estimated from ¹H NMR spectra, viscosity data and SAXS investigations. The polymers are shown to be conformationally rigid, and to form either densely packed coils or rods. It is mainly this difference in shape which causes the very specific properties of the respective polyelectrolytes in the solid state as well as in dilute solution. Finally, the UV-vis absorption spectra of some of these materials are presented.