Synthesis,structure, and properties of a pentanuclear cobalt(III) coordination cluster

The synthesis, X-ray structure and properties of a pentanuclear cobalt(III) coordination cluster {L(O₂CCH₃)Co₂O(OCH₃)₂}₂Co](ClO₄)₃ (1) (L^? = 2,6-bis((3-aminopropylimino)methyl)-4-methylphenolate) are described. The dinucleating L^? is coordinated with two cobalt(III) centers to form the {L(O₂CCH₃)Co₂O(OCH₃)₂} unit, where each metal center is in a distorted octahedral N₂O₄ environment. The oxo and the methoxo ligands of these two dinuclear units assemble a distorted octahedral O₆ coordination sphere around the central cobalt(III). Elemental analysis and spectroscopic (IR, NMR, UV–vis, and HRMS) features are consistent with the pentanuclear structure of the complex. The diamagnetic complex is a 1?:?3 electrolyte in solution. It is redox-active and displays a metal-centered reduction at E_1/2 = ?0.04 V (vs. Ag/AgCl).