Molecular DFT structure and packing effect of thiodipropionic and dithiodiglycolic acids and salts

Molecular and periodic DFT structure calculations of thiodipropionic and dithiodiglycolic acids, S_n(CH₂)(COOR)]₂ (n = 1,2, R = H, Na), were performed. Computed structures were analyzed and compared to the experimental data (a C_s conformation is favored in solution than C₂ in solid state). Four close and low-energy optimized conformations were analyzed: C_2v, C₂, C_s and C₁. Small changes in the conformation stability (ΔG) and symmetry group were observed in polar medium. Periodic DFT-GGA approaches have been performed to determine the importance of weak interaction upon the crystal structure of the thiodipropionic acid, e.g., S–H and/or O–H hydrogen bonding. More SH and OH dispersed bands were observed in the optimized structure. Using a full analysis of the DOS of O–H or S–H bonding contributions, a notable interlayer bonding in the parent structure was revealed. Therefore, the presence of such weak interaction ONa⁺ or OH may thus change the point group symmetry of the crystal upon packing effect.