Transition metal complexes of the tripodal ligand 4-(2′-pyridylmethyl)-4-azaheptane-1,7-diamine. Crystal structures of [CuLCl]ClO4 and [NiL(MeCN)2](ClO4)2

The tripodal ligand 4-(2′-pyridylmthyl)-4-azaheptane-1,7-diamine has been prepared by reaction of 2-aminemethyl pyridine with acrylonitrile, followed by the reduction of the nitrile groups. Copper(II), nickel(II), zinc(II), cobalt(III) and chromium(III) complexes of the ligand have been prepared and characterized and the crystal structures of the complexes [CuLCl]ClO₄ and [NiL(MeCN)₂](ClO₄)₂ determined. The copper complex is five coordinate with approximate square pyramidal stereochemistry with the apical position occupied by a primary amine donor. The nickel complex is octahedral with the pyridine nitrogen donor lying trans to an acetonitrile ligand.