Molecular single-ion magnets based on lanthanides and actinides: Design considerations and new advances in the context of quantum technologies

Role of Ab Initio Calculations in the Design and Development of Organometallic Lanthanide-Based Single-Molecule Magnets

Single-molecule magnets based on lanthanides are very attractive due to their potential applications proposed in the area of microelectronic devices. Very recent advances in this area are due to the blend of conventional lanthanide chemistry with organometallic ligands, and several breakthrough achievements are attained with this combination. Ab initio methods based on multi-reference CASSCF calculations are playing a vital role in the design and development of such molecules. In this minireview, we aim to appraise various contributions in the area of organometallic lanthanide complexes (those containing lanthanide-carbon bonds) and describe how these robust wavefunction-based methods have played a constructive role not only in rationalizing the observed magnetic properties but also proven to be a potential predictive tool with some selected examples.

A single-ion single-electron cerrous magnet

Herein, we present monometallic Ln(iii) complexes [L₃Ln(NO₃)₃] [where Ln = Ce (1) and La (2)] assembled from a simple reaction of the respective lanthanide nitrate hydrate and a bulky phosphonic diamide ^tBuPO(NHⁱPr)₂ ligand (L), where complex 1 behaves as a single-ion single-electron magnet under a small applied magnetic field. The Ce(iii) ion occupies a nine-coordinate distorted muffin-like coordination environment. The combination of direct and Raman process dominates the relaxation dynamics in 1 under the applied dc field. The low-temperature measurements performed with oriented crystals on a micro-SQUID setup exhibits strong tunnelling at zero-field, consistent with the theoretical results where strong mixing of the ground state with higher excited m_J levels is detected and also throws additional insights on the relaxation dynamics of 1. Ab initio calculations have been performed to understand the origin of anisotropy and models have been proposed for future directions.

Structures and Spectral and Magnetic Properties of a Series of Carbacylamidophosphate Pentanuclear Lanthanide(III) Hydroxo Complexes

A series of pentanuclear lanthanide complexes Ln₅L₆(μ-L)₄(μ₃-OH)₄(μ₄-OH) (Ln^III = Nd, Dy, Ho, Er, Yb; L^- = dimethyl N-benzoylamidophosphate ion, [C₆H₅C(O)-N-P(O)(OCH₃)₂]^-) was obtained by the reaction of sodium dimethyl N-benzoylamidophosphate with the corresponding lanthanide nitrates. The pentanuclear cores formed as a result of self-arrangement and their composition did not depend on the lanthanide ion. The complexes and sodium dimethyl N-benzoylamidophosphate have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The absorption spectra of the complexes were measured at 300 and 4 K. The dysprosium and ytterbium complexes exhibited weak emission in the visible and IR regions, respectively. Temperature dependences of magnetic susceptibility (χ_M) of the dysprosium, holmium, and erbium compounds were studied. It was found that χ_M vs T dependences were governed by the crystal field splitting effects with the Δ parameter being in the range 5-17 cm^-1. Slow magnetic relaxation was found for the dysprosium complex by ac magnetic measurements, while no significant out-of-phase signals were detected for holmium and erbium complexes.

Insight into D6h Symmetry: Targeting Strong Axiality in Stable Dysprosium(III) Hexagonal Bipyramidal Single-Ion Magnets

Following a novel synthetic strategy where the strong uniaxial ligand field generated by the Ph3 SiO- (Ph3 SiO- =anion of triphenylsilanol) and the 2,4-di-t Bu-PhO- (2,4-di-t Bu-PhO- =anion of 2,4-di-tertbutylphenol) ligands combined with the weak equatorial field of the ligand LN6 , leads to [DyIII (LN6 )(2,4-di-t Bu-PhO)2 ](PF6 ) (1), [DyIII (LN6 )(Ph3 SiO)2 ](PF6 ) (2) and [DyIII (LN6 )(Ph3 SiO)2 ](BPh4 ) (3) hexagonal bipyramidal dysprosium(III) single-molecule magnets (SMMs) with high anisotropy barriers of Ueff =973 K for 1, Ueff =1080 K for 2 and Ueff =1124 K for 3 under zero applied dc field. Ab initio calculations predict that the dominant magnetization reversal barrier of these complexes expands up to the 3rd Kramers doublet, thus revealing for the first time the exceptional uniaxial magnetic anisotropy that even the six equatorial donor atoms fail to negate, opening up the possibility to other higher-order symmetry SMMs.

Comparison of two field-induced ErIII single ion magnets

We present the synthesis, magnetic and photophysical properties of four mononuclear Ln^III complexes in two isostructural lattices containing Gd^III and Er^III. A heptadentate Schiff base ligand and acetate versus trifluoroacetate were used to synthesise complexes 1-4, among which the two Er^III complexes 2 and 4 exhibit field-induced SIM behaviour with almost similar U_eff values (31.6 K for 2 and 32.7 K for 4). Ab initio calculations show the structure of the low-lying energy states and highlight that there is already significant tunnelling in the ground doublet state, but the application of a weak magnetic field of 0.05 T is sufficient for ac magnetic measurements to suppress tunnelling in the ground state. The calculated main magnetic axes (g_Z) of the ground Kramers doublets show small differences between the two Er^III compounds 2 and 4 due to their different ligand fields.

Accurate Magnetic Couplings in Chromium-Based Molecular Rings from Broken-Symmetry Calculations within Density Functional Theory

We present a comprehensive analysis of magnetic coupling in a group of three popular chromium-based molecular rings, the homometallic Cr₈ ring and the heterometallic Cr₇Ni and Cr₇Zn molecules. We show conclusively that the broken symmetry approach within density functional theory (DFT), based on suitable conventional or range-separated hybrid functionals, provides a quantitatively reliable tool to extract magnetic exchange coupling parameters in all rings considered, which opens a window for additional applications in molecular magnetism. We further show that a nonempirical model spin Hamiltonian, based on the parameters extracted from DFT, leads to excellent agreement with experimental susceptibility data and energy spectra. Moreover, based on an optimally tuned range-separated hybrid functional approach, we find that gas-phase gaps of the studied molecular rings are much larger than previously calculated and discuss the implications of the revised electronic structure to potential applications in molecular spintronics.

Exploring the High-Temperature Frontier in Molecular Nanomagnets: From Lanthanides to Actinides

Molecular nanomagnets based on mononuclear metal complexes, also known as single-ion magnets (SIMs), are crossing challenging boundaries in molecular magnetism. From an experimental point of view, this class of magnetic molecules has expanded from lanthanoid complexes to both d-transition metal and actinoid complexes. From a theoretical point of view, more and more improved models have been developed, and we are now able not only to calculate the electronic structure of these systems on the basis of their molecular structures but also to unveil the role of vibrations in the magnetic relaxation processes, at least for lanthanoid and d-transition metal SIMs. This knowledge has allowed us to optimize the behavior of dysprosocenium-based SIMs until reaching magnetic hysteresis above liquid-nitrogen temperature. In this contribution, we offer a brief perspective of the progress of theoretical modeling in this field. We start by reviewing the developed methodologies to investigate the electronic structures of these systems and then move on focus to the open problem of understanding and optimizing the vibrationally induced spin relaxation, especially in uranium-based molecular nanomagnets. Finally, we discuss the differences in the design strategies for 4f and 5f SIMs, including an analysis of the metallocenium family.

Tetraoxolene-bridged rare-earth complexes: a radical-bridged dinuclear Dy single-molecule magnet

Two families of neutral tetraoxolene-bridged dinuclear rare earth complexes of general formula [((HBpz₃)₂RE)₂(μ-tetraoxolene)] (RE = Y and Dy; HBpz₃^- = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate; tetraoxolene = fluoranilate (fa^2-; 1-RE) or bromanilate (ba^2-; 2-RE)) have been synthesised and characterised. In each case, the bridging tetraoxolene ligand is in the diamagnetic dianionic form and each rare earth metal centre has two HBpz₃^- ligands completing the coordination. Electrochemical studies on the soluble 2-RE family reveal a tetraoxolene-based reversible one-electron reduction. Bulk chemical reduction with cobaltocene affords the cobaltocenium (CoCp⁺) salt of the 1e-reduced analogue: [CoCp][((HBpz₃)₂RE)₂(μ-ba˙)] (3-RE) that incorporates a radical trianionic form of the bromanilate bridging ligand. Alternating current (ac) magnetic susceptibility studies of 2-Dy reveal slow magnetic relaxation only in the presence of an applied magnetic field, but reduction to radical-bridged 3-Dy affords frequency-dependent peaks in the out-of-phase ac susceptibility in zero applied field. Exchange coupling between the Dy(iii) ions and the radical bridging ligand thus reduces zero-field magnetisation quantum tunnelling and confers single-molecule magnet status on the complex. Comprehensive analysis of the magnetic relaxation data indicates that a combination of Orbach, Raman and direct relaxation processes are required to fit the data for both dysprosium bromanilate complexes.

Theoretical Investigation of the Electronic Structure and Magnetic Properties of Oxo-Bridged Uranyl(V) Dinuclear and Trinuclear Complexes

The uranyl(V) complexes [UO₂(dbm)₂K(18C6)]₂ (dbm = dibenzoylmethanate) and [UO₂(L)]₃(L = 2-(4-tolyl)-1,3-bis(quinolyl)malondiiminate), exhibiting diamond-shaped U₂O₂ and triangular-shaped U₃O₃ cores respectively with 5f¹-5f¹ and 5f¹-5f¹-5f¹ configurations, have been investigated using relativistic density functional theory (DFT). The bond order and QTAIM analyses reveal that the covalent contribution to the bonding within the oxo cores is slightly more important for U₃O₃ than for U₂O₂, in line with the shorter U-O distances existing in the trinuclear complex in comparison to those in the binuclear complex. Using the broken symmetry (BS) approach combined with the B3LYP functional for the calculation of the magnetic exchange coupling constants (J) between the magnetic centers, the antiferromagnetic (AF) character of these complexes was confirmed, the estimated J values being respectively equal to -24.1 and -7.2 cm^-1 for the dioxo and trioxo species. It was found that the magnetic exchange is more sensitive to small variations of the core geometry of the dioxo species in comparison to the trioxo species. Although the robust AF exchange coupling within the U_xO_x cores is generally maintained when small variations of the UOU angle are applied, a weak ferromagnetic character appears in the dioxo species when this angle is higher than 114°, its value for the actual structure being equal to 105.9°. The electronic factors driving the magnetic coupling are discussed.

Tuning the Magnetization Dynamic Properties of Nd⋅⋅⋅Fe and Nd⋅⋅⋅Co Single-Molecular Magnets by Introducing 3 d-4 f Magnetic Interactions

By using paramagnetic [Fe(CN)₆ ]^3- anions in place of diamagnetic [Co(CN)₆ ]^3- anions, two field-induced mononuclear single-molecular magnets, [Nd(18-crown-6)(H₂ O)₄ ][Co(CN)₆ ]⋅2 H₂ O (1) and [Nd(18-crown-6)(H₂ O)₄ ][Fe(CN)₆ ]⋅2 H₂ O (2), have been synthesized and characterized. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that compounds 1 and 2 were ionic complexes. The Nd^III ions were located inside the cavities of the 18-crown-6 ligands and were each bound by four water molecules on either side of the crown ether. Magnetic investigations showed that these compounds were both field-induced single-molecular magnets. By comparing the slow relaxation behaviors of compounds 1 and 2, we found significant differences between the direct and Raman processes for these two complexes, with a stronger direct process in compound 2 at low temperatures. Complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) calculations were also performed on two [Nd(18-crown-6)(H₂ O)₄ ]³⁺ fragments of compounds 1 and 2. Ab initio calculations showed that the magnetic anisotropies of the Nd^III centers in complexes 1 and 2 were similar to each other, which indicated that the difference in relaxation behavior was not owing to the magnetic anisotropy of Nd^III . Our analysis showed that the magnetic interaction between the Nd^III ion and the low-spin Fe^III ion in complex 2 played an important role in enhancing the direct process and suppressing the Raman process of the single-molecular magnet.

How important is the coordinating atom in controlling magnetic anisotropy in uranium(iii) single-ion magnets? A theoretical perspective

Theoretical investigation of actinide based nanomagnets is of paramount interest in the field of molecular magnetism as they offer remarkable properties compared to their lanthanide counterparts. Unlike lanthanides, the magnetic properties of actinides can be fine-tuned by modulating the ligand field as they possess a large metal-ligand covalency. In this regard, two complexes reported earlier have gained attention: [U(BcMe)₃] (1) has been found to show Single-ion Magnet (SIM) characteristics whereas isomeric [U(BpMe)₃] (2) does not exhibit any SIM behaviour. To unravel the origin of the differences observed in magnetic anisotropy, a detailed ab initio CASSCF study has been undertaken on the X-ray structure of complexes 1 and 2. Since actinide compounds exhibit strong covalency, the desired active space needs to be benchmarked to address this issue. Here, we have enlarged the active space systematically from CAS(3,7) to CAS(3,12) where all 5f electrons in 5f orbitals are sequentially expanded to include five formally empty 6d orbitals. Our calculations reveal that the incorporation of the 6d_z² orbital is vital in reproducing many experimental observables such as temperature dependent susceptibility, g-factors, ground state m_J level, and ground-state-excited-state gap. Inclusion of this orbital in the reference space is found to describe better the UH-BH agostic interactions leading to significant variations in the computed parameters. Gaining from this understanding, we have carried out extensive bonding analysis within the DFT framework using tools such as Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) and Atoms In Molecule (AIM) to further probe these weak agostic interactions. Also, predictions to enhance the U-ligand covalency using U-sulphur bonds and the role of the U-C distance and C-U-C bite angles in the nature of anisotropy have been studied, and relevant magneto-structural correlations have been developed. Thus our results for the first time provide a comprehensive understanding of uranium based SMMs and offer ways to fine tune the anisotropy for experimental chemists.

A first peek into sub-picosecond dynamics of spin energy levels in magnetic biomolecules

We estimate the time- and temperature-evolution of spin energy levels in a metallopeptide by combining molecular dynamics with crystal field analysis. Fluctuations of tens of cm^-1 for spin energy levels at fs times gradually average out at longer times. We confirm that local vibrations are key in spin dynamics.

Series of Chloranilate-Bridged Dinuclear Lanthanide Complexes: Kramers Systems Showing Field-Induced Slow Magnetic Relaxation

A series of chloralilate-bridged dinuclear lanthanide complexes of formula [{LnIII(Tp)2}2(μ-Cl2An)]·2CH2Cl2, where Cl2An2− and Tp− represent the chloranilate and hydrotris (pyrazolyl)borate ligands, respectively, and Ln = Gd (1), Tb (2), Ho (3), Er (4), and Yb (5) was synthesized. All five complexes were characterized by an elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, single crystal X-ray diffraction, and SQUID measurements. The complexes 1–5 in the series were all isostructural. A comparison of the temperature dependence of the dc magnetic susceptibility data of these complexes revealed clear differences depending on the lanthanide center. Ac magnetic susceptibility measurements revealed that none of the five complexes exhibited a slow magnetic relaxation under a zero applied dc field. On the other hand, the Kramers systems (complexes 4 and 5) clearly displayed a slow magnetic relaxation under applied dc fields, suggesting field-induced single-molecule magnets that occur through Orbach and Raman relaxation processes.

A Trigonal Prismatic Cobalt(II) Complex as a Single Molecule Magnet with a Reduced Contribution from Quantum Tunneling

Herein, we report a new trigonal prismatic cobalt(II) complex that behaves as a single molecule magnet. The obtained zero-field splitting, which is also directly accessed by THz-EPR spectroscopy (-102.5 cm^-1 ), results in a large magnetization reversal barrier U of 205 cm^-1 . Its effective value, however, is much lower (101 cm^-1 ), even though there is practically no contribution from quantum tunneling to magnetization relaxation.

Molecular spins for quantum computation

Spins in solids or in molecules possess discrete energy levels, and the associated quantum states can be tuned and coherently manipulated by means of external electromagnetic fields. Spins therefore provide one of the simplest platforms to encode a quantum bit (qubit), the elementary unit of future quantum computers. Performing any useful computation demands much more than realizing a robust qubit-one also needs a large number of qubits and a reliable manner with which to integrate them into a complex circuitry that can store and process information and implement quantum algorithms. This 'scalability' is arguably one of the challenges for which a chemistry-based bottom-up approach is best-suited. Molecules, being much more versatile than atoms, and yet microscopic, are the quantum objects with the highest capacity to form non-trivial ordered states at the nanoscale and to be replicated in large numbers using chemical tools.

DFT Investigations of the Magnetic Properties of Actinide Complexes

Over the past 25 years, magnetic actinide complexes have been the object of considerable attention, not only at the experimental level, but also at the theoretical one. Such systems are of great interest, owing to the well-known larger spin–orbit coupling for actinide ions, and could exhibit slow relaxation of the magnetization, arising from a large anisotropy barrier, and magnetic hysteresis of purely molecular origin below a given blocking temperature. Furthermore, more diffuse 5f orbitals than lanthanide 4f ones (more covalency) could lead to stronger magnetic super-exchange. On the other hand, the extraordinary experimental challenges of actinide complexes chemistry, because of their rarity and toxicity, afford computational chemistry a particularly valuable role. However, for such a purpose, the use of a multiconfigurational post-Hartree-Fock approach is required, but such an approach is computationally demanding for polymetallic systems—notably for actinide ones—and usually simplified models are considered instead of the actual systems. Thus, Density Functional Theory (DFT) appears as an alternative tool to compute magnetic exchange coupling and to explore the electronic structure and magnetic properties of actinide-containing molecules, especially when the considered systems are very large. In this paper, relevant achievements regarding DFT investigations of the magnetic properties of actinide complexes are surveyed, with particular emphasis on some representative examples that illustrate the subject, including actinides in Single Molecular Magnets (SMMs) and systems featuring metal-metal super-exchange coupling interactions. Examples are drawn from studies that are either entirely computational or are combined experimental/computational investigations in which the latter play a significant role.

Spectroscopic Determination of the Electronic Structure of a Uranium Single-Ion Magnet

Early actinide ions have large spin-orbit couplings and crystal field interactions, leading to large anisotropies. The success in using actinides as single-molecule magnets has so far been modest, underlining the need for rational strategies. Indeed, the electronic structure of actinide single-molecule magnets and its relation to their magnetic properties remains largely unexplored. A uranium(III) single-molecule magnet, [U^III {SiMe₂ NPh}₃ -tacn)(OPPh₃ )] (tacn=1,4,7-triazacyclononane), has been investigated by means of a combination of magnetic, spectroscopic and theoretical methods to elucidate the origin of its static and dynamic magnetic properties.

Dinuclear lanthanide–lithium complexes based on fluorinated β-diketonate with acetal group: magnetism and effect of crystal packing on mechanoluminescence

A convenient and straightforward synthesis of a novel type of Ln–Li β-diketonates with a discrete molecular structure is presented.

Oxidation of uranium(iv) thiocyanate complexes: cation–cation interactions in mixed-valent uranium coordination chains

Oxidation of Cs₄[U(NCS)₈] in different solvents results in two mixed-valent uranium compounds. Spectroscopic, magnetic and computational data support a unique [U^IVU^VU^IV][U^VI] oxidation state assignment in [U(DMF)₈(μ-O)U(NCS)₅(μ-O)U(DMF)₇(NCS)][UO₂(NCS)₅].

A new air- and moisture-stable pentagonal-bipyramidal DyIII single-ion magnet based on the HMPA ligand

A new pentagonal-bipyramidal Dy^III SIM was obtained with HMPA ligand, which is stable to air and moisture and shows slow relaxation of magnetization up to 36 K (1000 Hz) with U_eff of 556 K.

Boosting axiality in stable high-coordinate Dy(iii) single-molecule magnets

A new nine-coordinate, air-stable Dy(iii) single-ion magnet has been successfully isolated. Our in silico studies demonstrate that through carefully modulating the ligand electronics, the axiality can be boosted to generate Ucal barriers of over 600 K.

Selective reduction of 1,5-diazacyclooctatetraenes: synthesis and structures of aromatic diazacyclooctatetraenyl dianions and a 2,6-bipyrrolinyl dianionic Co(ii) complex

The first structurally well-defined aromatic 1,5-diazacyclooctatetraenyl dianion and a 2,6-bipyrrolinyl dianionic Co(ii) complex were obtained selectively via reduction of 1,5-diazacyclooctatetraenes.

Aggregation of [LnIII12] clusters by the dianion of 3-formylsalicylic acid. Synthesis, crystal structures, magnetic and luminescence properties

Three different lanthanides (Eu^III, Gd^III, Dy^III) have been used to generate [Ln₁₂] clusters with specific optical and magnetic properties.

Ligand ratio/solvent-influenced syntheses, crystal structures, and magnetic properties of polydentate Schiff base ligand-Dy(iii) compounds with β-diketonate ligands as co-ligands

Tuning the synthesis conditions and further regulating the magnetic dynamics of single-molecule magnets (SMMs) are crucial challenges for chemists.

Wide-Range UV-to-Visible Excitation of Near-Infrared Emission and Slow Magnetic Relaxation in LnIII(4,4'-Azopyridine-1,1'-dioxide)[CoIII(CN)6]3- Layered Frameworks

Trivalent lanthanide ions combined with two molecular linkers, organic 4,4'-azopyridine-1,1'-dioxide (apdo), and inorganic hexacyanidocobaltate(III), gave a series of magnetoluminescent coordination polymers, [{Ln^III(apdo)(H₂O)₄}{Co^III(CN)₆}]·2H₂O (Ln = Nd, 1; Tb, 2; Dy, 3; Er, 4; Tm, 5; Yb, 6). They are hybrid organic-inorganic layered frameworks composed of cyanido-bridged {Ln₂(μ-NC)₄Co₂} squares linked by Ln-apdo-Ln bridges into a coordination network of a mixed 4- and 8-metal ring topology. Lanthanide(III) complexes, [Ln^III(μ-apdo)₂(H₂O)₄(μ-NC)₂]⁺, of a distorted dodecahedral geometry are isolated by diamagnetic [Co^III(CN)₆]^3- and apdo linkers. As a result, 1-6 reveal field-induced slow relaxation of magnetization, with typical temperature-dependent relaxation of a single-ion origin for Nd^III-containing 1, Dy^III-containing 3, and Yb^III-containing 6. The related alternate-current magnetic data were precisely analyzed, indicating the multiple magnetic relaxation pathways, including a direct process, strong quantum tunneling of magnetization, non-negligible Raman processes, and crucial two-phonon Orbach thermal relaxation. The thermal energy barriers of the Orbach process, Δ E/ k_B, are 15.1(9) K with τ₀ = 9.8(9) × 10^-6 s at H_dc = 4500 Oe, 16.1(8) K with τ₀ = 9.0(9) × 10^-5 s at H_dc = 1500 Oe, and 17.3(6) K with τ₀ = 3.2(7) × 10^-6 s at H_dc = 700 Oe, for 1, 3, and 6, respectively, proving the single-molecule magnet (SMM) behavior. Because of the presence of [Co(CN)₆]^3-, 1-6 show strong UV absorption, while the chromophoric apdo leads to the strong absorption in the visible range. As a result, the visible 4f/3d metal-centered emission is quenched, but the near-infrared luminescence from Nd^III and Yb^III is observed in 1 and 6, respectively. It is realized by Co-to-Ln metal-to-metal, and apdo-to-Ln ligand-to-metal energy transfers; thus, broad UV-to-visible excitation can be explored. Compounds 1-6 form a novel family of functional bimetallic assemblies, incorporating NIR-emissive SMMs as presented for NdCo (1) and YbCo (6) derivatives.

A mononuclear five-coordinate Co(ii) single molecule magnet with a spin crossover between the S = 1/2 and 3/2 states

Although a great number of single-ion magnets (SIMs) and spin-crossover (SCO) compounds have been discovered, multifunctional materials with the combination of SCO and SIM properties are extremely scarce. Here magnetic studies have been carried out for a mononuclear, five-coordinate cobalt(ii) complex [Co(3,4-lut)4Br]Br (1) with square pyramidal geometry. Direct-current magnetic measurement confirms the spin transition between the S = 1/2 and 3/2 states in the range of 150-290 K with a small hysteresis loop. Frequency- and temperature-dependent alternating-current magnetic susceptibility reveals slow magnetization relaxation under an applied dc field of 3000 Oe. The work here presents the first instance of the five-coordinate mononuclear cobalt(ii)-based SIM exhibiting the thermally induced complete SCO.

Carbide clusterfullerene DyYTiC@C80 featuring three different metals in the endohedral cluster and its single-ion magnetism

Carbide clusterfullerene DyYTiC@C80-Ih with three different metal atoms in the endohedral cluster is obtained by arc-discharge synthesis with methane as reactive gas and is successfully isolated by HPLC. The compound shows single-molecule magnetism (SMM) with magnetic hysteresis below 8 K. The SMM properties of DyYTiC@C80 are compared to those of DySc2N@C80 and the influence of the central atom in the endohedral cluster is analyzed.

Lanthanide(III)-Based Single-Ion Magnets

Mononuclear lanthanide-based single-ion magnets (SIMs) are known since 2003 with the discovery of SIM properties in a bis-(phthalocyaninato)lanthanide complex. A recent report on [Dy(Cp^ttt)₂][BC₆F₅] indicating that it exhibits the highest known blocking temperature (60 K) has spurred fresh interest in this area. In this article, we discuss about the various requirements of lanthanide-based SIMs along with representative examples. Specifically, we describe the complexes whose coordination numbers vary from 2 to 8. We also discuss the representative examples of organometallic lanthanide complexes that can function as molecular magnets.

Peptides as Versatile Platforms for Quantum Computing

The pursuit of novel functional building blocks for the emerging field of quantum computing is one of the most appealing topics in the context of quantum technologies. Herein we showcase the urgency of introducing peptides as versatile platforms for quantum computing. In particular, we focus on lanthanide-binding tags, originally developed for the study of protein structure. We use pulsed electronic paramagnetic resonance to demonstrate quantum coherent oscillations in both neodymium and gadolinium peptidic qubits. Calculations based on density functional theory followed by a ligand field analysis indicate the possibility of influencing the nature of the spin qubit states by means of controlled changes in the peptidic sequence. We conclude with an overview of the challenges and opportunities opened by this interdisciplinary field.

Crystal Field Splittings in Lanthanide Complexes: Inclusion of Correlation Effects beyond Second Order Perturbation Theory

State-averaged complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) calculations and a subsequent spin-orbit calculation mixing the CASSCF wave functions (CASSCF/state-interaction with spin-orbit coupling) is the conventional approach used for ab initio calculations of crystal-field splittings and magnetic properties of lanthanide complexes. However, this approach neglects dynamical correlation. Complete active space second-order perturbation theory (CASPT2) can be used to account for dynamical correlation but suffers from the well-known problems of multireference perturbation theory, e.g., intruder state problems. Variational multireference configuration interaction (MRCI) calculations do not show these problems but are usually not feasible due to the large size of real lanthanide complexes. Here, we present a quasi-local projected internally contracted MRCI approach which makes MRCI calculations of lanthanide complexes feasible and allows assessing the influence of dynamical correlation beyond second-order perturbation theory. We apply the method to two well-studied molecules, namely, [Er{N(SiMe₃)₂}₃] and {C(NH₂)₃}₅[Er(CO₃)₄]·11H₂O.

Chiral, Heterometallic Lanthanide–Transition Metal Complexes by Design

Achieving control over coordination geometries in lanthanide complexes remains a challenge to the coordination chemist. This is particularly the case in the field of molecule-based magnetism, where barriers for magnetic relaxation processes as well as tunneling pathways are strongly influenced by the lanthanide coordination geometry. Addressing the challenge of design of 4f-element coordination environments, the ubiquitous Ln(hfac)3 moieties have been shown to be applicable as Lewis acids coordinating transition metal acetylacetonates facially leading to simple, chiral lanthanide–transition metal heterodinuclear complexes. The broad scope of this approach is illustrated by the synthesis of a range of such complexes LnM: LnM(hfac)3(μ2-acac-O,O,O′)3 (Ln = La, Pr, Gd; M = Cr, Fe, Ga), with approximate three-fold symmetry. The complexes have been crystallographically characterized and exhibit polymorphism for some combinations of 4f and 3d metal centers. However, an isostructural set of systems spanning several lanthanides which exhibit spontaneous resolution in the orthorhombic Sohncke space group P212121 is presented here. The electronic structure and ensuing magnetic properties have been studied by EPR spectroscopy and magnetometry. The GdFe, PrFe, and PrCr complexes exhibit ferromagnetic coupling, while GdCr exhibits antiferromagnetic coupling. GdGa exhibits slow relaxation of the magnetization in applied static fields.

Two {ZnDyIII} complexes supported by monophenoxido/dicarboxylate bridges with multiple relaxation processes: carboxylato ancillary ligand-controlled magnetic anisotropy in square antiprismatic DyIII species

Two linear-shaped heterometallic trinuclear {ZnII2DyIII} clusters were prepared with a compartmental Schiff-base ligand and carboxylate as the co-ligand. The central DyIII ion is sandwiched by two [ZnHhms(RCOO)2] (H2hms = (2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)-semicarbazide) units to form a distorted square antiprismatic (SAP) geometry with D4d symmetry. The DyIII and ZnII ions are triply bridged by one unique monophenoxido/dicarboxylate group, where one of the carboxylates shows a severe angular distortion. The magnetic analysis revealed a field-dependent change with two relaxation processes in 1 and 2, which originated from the molecular magnetic center and dipolar-dipolar coupling. The dipole-induced slow relaxation disappeared upon magnetic-site dilution, while another faster relaxation appeared in the high frequency region associated with the different distortions of the antiprismatic sites for 1 and disordered structures for 2. Ab initio calculations revealed that two {ZnII2DyIII}-carboxylate complexes are axial in nature, but the remarkable quantum tunnelling of the magnetization exists in the ground state, which lowers the anisotropic barrier and prohibits zero-field single-molecule magnet behavior. The crystal field of the carboxylato ancillary ligands produces a competitive effect with the phenoxido bridging ligands on the magnetic anisotropy of the lanthanide ions, which greatly affects the electrostatic distribution of this type of {ZnII2DyIII} single-ion magnets (SIMs). The results offer a model for further investigating structural factors in the relaxation mechanism of SIM systems.

Probing Optical Anisotropy and Polymorph-Dependent Photoluminescence in [Ln2 ] Complexes by Hyperspectral Imaging on Single Crystals

Two homodinuclear and one heterodinuclear lanthanide (Ln)-based complexes of the general formula [Ln₂ (bpm)(tfaa)₆ ] (Ln=Eu (1), Tb (2), Eu-Tb (3), bpm=2,2'-bipyrimidine, tfaa^- =1,1,1-trifluoroacetylacetonate) were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal photoluminescence spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging. Complexes 1 and 2 crystallize in two polymorphic structures, while three polymorphs were isolated for 3, namely having needle-, plate-, and block-like morphologies. Single-crystal photoluminescence spectroscopy and imaging on Eu³⁺ -containing 1 and 3 revealed polymorph-dependent J-splitting of the hypersensitive ⁵ D₀ →⁷ F₂ Eu³⁺ transition as well as electric-to-magnetic dipole emission intensity ratios. According to these observations, the lowest symmetry chemical environment was attributed to the Eu³⁺ ions present in the needle-like polymorph, also in agreement with single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. More importantly, hyperspectral imaging on all three single-crystal polymorphs of 3 exhibits optical anisotropy with photoluminescence enhancement at specific crystallographic faces. This behavior was ascribed to the distinct molecular packing of the Ln-Ln dimers in each polymorphic crystal as well as to face-specific local symmetry of the Eu³⁺ centers. Overall, opto-structural relationships of three Ln-Ln dimers and their single-crystal polymorphs were established as a particularly promising avenue for control of photoluminescence by chemical crystal engineering.

Exchange Interactions Switch Tunneling: A Comparative Experimental and Theoretical Study on Relaxation Dynamics by Targeted Metal Ion Replacement

The magnetic relaxation and magnetization blocking barriers of tailor-made homo- and heterodinuclear compounds [Dy₂ (opch)₂ (OAc)₂ (H₂ O)₂ ]⋅MeOH (1) and [DyMn(opch)₂ (OAc)(MeOH)(H₂ O)₂ ] (2), where H₂ opch is (E)-N'-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)pyrazine-2-carbohydrazide, were systematically investigated and the change in single-molecule magnet behavior originating from targeted replacement of one dysprosium site in the Dy₂ compound with manganese was elucidated through a combination of experimental and theoretical studies. A detailed comparative study on these closely related model compounds revealed remarkable changes of the crystal-field splitting and anisotropy of the Dy site and the total exchange spectrum due to the replacement of Dy by Mn. The blocking barriers of these two compounds, which explain their different relaxation behaviors, were analyzed. The two Ising doublets arising from the magnetic interaction in the case of 1 are strongly uniaxial, with tunneling splittings smaller than 10^-6  cm^-1 , and this leads to magnetic relaxation at temperatures exceeding the exchange energy (2.14 cm^-1 ), which involves transition via the excited states corresponding to local transitions on the excited doublet at the Dy site. The third and fourth exchange doublets in 2 (located at 2.16 and 3.25 cm^-1 , respectively) show much larger tunneling splittings (of 10^-4 and 10^-3  cm^-1 , respectively), and thus open an important path for magnetic relaxation.