The spin-states and spin-transitions of mononuclear iron(II) complexes of nitrogen-donor ligands

A survey of mononuclear iron(II) complexes with heterocyclic N-donor ligation is presented. A brief introduction to spin-crossover chemistry and low-temperature spin-trapping is provided, since many of these compounds undergo thermal spin-transitions upon cooling or heating. These are highlighted, and the structural changes underlying spin-crossover are discussed where this is known. Materials showing spin-trapping behaviour following thermal quenching or irradiation at very low temperatures are also described.