Metal‐to‐Ligand Charge Transfer Induced Valence Tautomeric Forms of Non‐Innocent 2,2′‐Azobis(benzothiazole) in Ruthenium Frameworks

Fine Tuning between Radical versus Nonradical States of Azoheteroarenes on Selective Osmium Platforms

The article highlights the cooperative impact of azoheteroarenes [abbt: 2,2'-azobis(benzothiazole), L1-L3; bmpd: (E)-1,2-bis(1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-yl) diazene, L4] and coligands [bpy: 2,2'-bipyridine; pap: 2-phenylazopyridine] in tuning radical (N-N•-) versus nonradical (N═N0) states of L on selective OsII-platforms in structurally/spectroscopically characterized monomeric [1]ClO4-[6]ClO4 and [1](ClO4)2-[2](ClO4)2/[7](ClO4)2-[8](ClO4)2, respectively. The preferred syn-configuration of L in the complexes prevented obtaining ligand bridged dimeric species. It revealed that {Os(bpy)2} facilitated the stabilization of both nonradical ([1](ClO4)2-[2](ClO4)2) and radical ([1]ClO4-[2]ClO4) states of L1/L2, while it delivered exclusively the radical form for L3 in [3]ClO4. In contrast, {Os(pap)2} generated radical states of L1-L3 in [4]ClO4-[6]ClO4, respectively, without any alteration of the redox state of OsII and azo (N═N0) function of the pap coligand. The neutral state of L4 was, however, ascertained in [7](ClO4)2 or [8](ClO4)2 irrespective of the nature of the metal fragment {Os(bpy)2} or {Os(pap)2}, respectively. Switching between radical and nonradical forms of L in the complexes as a function L and coligand could be addressed based on their relative FMO (frontier molecular orbital) energies. Multiple close redox steps of the complexes extended a competitive electron transfer scenario between the redox active components including metal/L/bpy/pap, leading to delicate electronic forms in each case.

Predicting valence tautomerism in diverse cobalt-dioxolene complexes: elucidation of the role of ligands and solvent

The ability of molecular switches to reversibly interconvert between different forms promises potential applications at the scale of single molecules up to bulk materials. One type of molecular switch comprises cobalt-dioxolene compounds that exhibit thermally-induced valence tautomerism (VT) interconversions between low spin Co(iii)-catecholate (LS-CoIII-cat) and high spin Co(ii)-semiquinonate (HS-CoII-sq) forms. Two families of these compounds have been investigated for decades but have generally been considered separately: neutral [Co(diox)(sq)(N2L)] and cationic [Co(diox)(N4L)]+ complexes (diox = generic dioxolene, N2L/N4L = bidentate/tetradentate N-donor ancillary ligand). Computational identification of promising new candidate compounds prior to experimental exploration is beneficial for environmental and cost considerations but requires a thorough understanding of the underlying thermochemical parameters that influence the switching. Herein, we report a robust approach for the analysis of both cobalt-dioxolene families, which involved a quantitative density functional theory-based study benchmarked with reliable quasi-experimental references. The best-performing M06L-D4/def2-TZVPP level of theory has subsequently been verified by the synthesis and experimental investigation of three new complexes, two of which exhibit thermally-induced VT, while the third remains in the LS-CoIII-cat form across all temperatures, in agreement with prediction. Valence tautomerism in solution is markedly solvent-dependent, but the origin of this has not been definitively established. We have extended our computational approach to elucidate the correlation of VT transition temperature with solvent stabilisation energy and change in dipole moment. This new understanding may inform the development of VT compounds for applications in soft materials including films, gels, and polymers.

Metal-ligand synergy driven functionalisation of alkylene linked bis(aldimine) on a diruthenium(II) platform. Cyclisation versus oxygenation

This article addresses the impact of metal-ligand redox cooperativity on the functionalisation of coordinated ligands. It demonstrates the structure-reactivity correlation of bis(aldimine) derived bis-bidentate L (Py-CHN-(CH2)n-NCH-Py, with n = 2 (L1), 3 (L2), 4 (L3)) as a function of the conformation (syn/anti) of its alkylene linker as well as the overall structural form (cis/trans) of (acac)2RuII(μ-L)RuII(acac)2 complex moieties (1-5) possessing an electron-rich acetylacetonate (acac) co-ligand. A systematic variation of the bridging alkylene unit of L in RuII/RuII-derived 1-5 led to the following reactivity/redox events, which were validated through structural, spectroscopic, electrochemical and theoretical evaluations: (i) Cyclisation of the ethylene linked (syn conformation) bis-aldimine unit of L1 via C-C coupling yielded pyrazine bridged (acac)2RuII(μ-L1')RuII(acac)2, 1a, while the corresponding anti-form (ethylene linker) of the metal-bound L1 in 2 ((acac)2RuII(μ-L1)RuII(acac)2) led to oxygenation at the ligand backbone (bis-aldimine (L) → bis(carboxamido) (L'')) via O2 activation to generate RuIIIRuIII-derived (acac)2RuIII(μ-L1''2-)RuIII(acac)2 (2a). (ii) Consequently, propylene and butylene linked L2 and L3 bridged between two {Ru(acac)2} units in 3 and 4/5 underwent oxygenation of L to L'' to yield diruthenium(III) complexes 3a and 4a/5a, respectively. (iii) In contrast, analogous L bridged oxidised [(acac)2RuIII(μ-L)RuIII(acac)2](ClO4)2 ([2](ClO4)2-[5](ClO4)2) and [{(PPh3)2(CO)(H)RuII}2(μ-L)](ClO4)2 ([6](ClO4)2-[8](ClO4)2) involving electron poor co-ligands failed to undergo the oxygenation of L irrespective of its n value, reemphasising the effective role of redox interplay between RuII and L particularly in the presence of an electron-rich acac co-ligand in the functionalisation of the latter in 1a-5a.

The isomer-sensitive electrochemical HER of ruthenium(II)-hydrido complexes involving redox-active azoheteroaromatics

The article deals with the development of isomeric ruthenium(II)-hydrido complexes [RuII(H)(L1)(PPh3)2(CO)]ClO4 ([1a]ClO4-[1b]ClO4)/[RuII(H)(L2)(PPh3)2(CO)]ClO4 ([2a]ClO4-[2b]ClO4) involving azo coupled L1 [L1: (E)-1,2-bis(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)diazene]/L2 [L2: (E)-1,2-bis(4-iodo-1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)diazene], respectively. Structural evaluation of the complexes affirmed the syn conformation of the coordinated/uncoordinated pyrazole groups of L and its unperturbed neutral azo (NN) state. Isomeric forms in [1a]ClO4/[1b]ClO4 or [2a]ClO4/[2b]ClO4 differed with respect to the cis and trans orientations of the coordinated CO and N(azo) donor of L, respectively. It also demonstrated the formation of intermolecular hydrogen-bonded dimeric or 1D-polymeric chains in [1a]ClO4/[2b]ClO4 or [1b]ClO4, respectively. Successive two-electron reductions of the complexes varied to an appreciable extent as a function of the heterocycles connected to L. The involvement of the azo function of L towards the reductions ([NN]0 → [NN]˙- → [NN]2-) was supported by the DFT calculated MOs and Mulliken spin density at the paramagnetic state, which was further validated by the radical EPR profile of the first reduced (S = 1/2) state. Isomeric [1a]ClO4/[1b]ClO4 or [2a]ClO4/[2b]ClO4 immobilised on the carbon cloth support underwent various electrochemical acidic HERs (hydrogen evolution reactions) with TOF/10-1 s-1: [1a]ClO4 (0.83) > [1b]ClO4 (0.68) > [2a]ClO4 (0.50) > [2b]ClO4 (0.37).

Peculiar Differences between Two Copper Complexes Containing Similar Redox-Active Ligands: Density Functional and Multiconfigurational Calculations

Transition metal complexes featuring redox-active ligands often exhibit multiple redox states, influenced by the interplay between the metal center and the ligand. This study delves into the electronic structures of two mononuclear complexes of copper with two similar redox-active urea azine ligands. The ligands differ by the replacement of an NCH3 moiety by an S atom in the ligand backbone. Experimental analysis yields pronounced electronic structural disparities between these complexes, observable in both the solution and solid phases. Conventional quantum chemical methods, such as density functional theory using different functionals (B3LYP, TPSSh, and CAM-B3LYP), remain inadequate to rationalize the observed spectroscopic anomalies. However, a multiconfigurational approach elucidates the disparate behaviors of these complexes. Multireference perturbation theory, based on complete active space self-consistent field computations, identifies Cu(I) in the case of the complex with the NCH3 containing ligands and a state with substantial Cu(II) contributions in the case of the complex with the S atom containing ligands. In contrast, DFT indicates Cu(I) in both scenarios.

Electron transfer catalysis mediated by 3d complexes of redox non-innocent ligands possessing an azo function: a perspective

It was first reported almost two decades ago that ligands with azo functions are capable of accepting electron(s) upon coordination to produce azo-anion radical complexes, thereby exhibiting redox non-innocence. Over the past two decades, there have been numerous reports of such complexes along with their structures and diverse characteristics. The ability of a coordinated azo function to accept one or more electron(s), thereby acting as an electron reservoir, is currently employed to carry out electron transfer catalysis since they can undergo redox transformation at mild potentials due to the presence of energetically accessible energy levels. The cooperative involvement of redox non-innocent ligand(s) containing an azo group and the coordinated metal centre can adjust and modulate the Lewis acidity of the latter through selective ligand-centred redox events, thereby manipulating the capacity of the metal centre to bind to the substrate. We have summarized the list of first row transition metal complexes of iron, cobalt, nickel, copper and zinc with redox non-innocent ligands incorporating an azo function that have been exploited as electron transfer catalysts to effectuate sustainable synthesis of a wide variety of useful chemicals. These include ketazines, pyrimidines, benzothiazole, benzoxazoles, N-acyl hydrazones, quinazoline-4(3)H-ones, C-3 alkylated indoles, N-alkylated anilines and N-alkylated heteroamines. The reaction pathways, as demonstrated by catalytic loops, reveal that the azo function of a coordinated ligand can act as an electron sink in the initial steps to bring about alcohol oxidation and thereafter, they serve as an electron pool to produce the final products either via HAT or PCET processes.

Tetracoordinated 15-Electron Ruthenium(I) in a Discrete Triruthenium Framework

This paper highlights the unique case of a tetracoordinated Ru(I) (15-electron) component in a structurally characterized discrete triruthenium setup, [(acac)2RuIIIL1(μ-RuI)L1RuII (acac)2](ClO4)2 ([3](ClO4)2, where acac = acetylacetonate; S = 1), which was formed along with the monomeric [(acac)2RuIII(L1)] ([1]ClO4; S = 1/2) and dimeric [{(acac)2RuIII}2(μ-L1)](ClO4)2 ([2](ClO4)2; S = 1) counterparts upon interaction of {Ru(acac)2} and L1 = 3,3'-dipyridin-2-yl-1,1'-bis(imidazo[1,5-a]pyridinyl).

Dual-radical-based molecular anisotropy and synergy effect of semi-conductivity and valence tautomerization in a photoswitchable coordination polymer

Organic radicals are widely used as linkers or ligands to synthesize molecular magnetic materials. However, studies regarding the molecular anisotropies of radical-based magnetic materials and their multifunctionalities are rare. Herein, a photoisomerizable diarylethene ligand was used to form {[Co^III(3,5-DTSQ^·-)(3,5-DTCat^2-)]₂(6F-DAE-py₂)}·3CH₃CN·H₂O (o-1·3CH₃CN·H₂O, 6F-DAE-py₂ = 1,2-bis(2-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl)-3-thienyl)perfluorocyclopentene), a valence-tautomeric (VT) coordination polymer. We directly observed dual radicals for a single crystal using high-field/-frequency (∼13.3 T and ∼360 GHz) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy along the c-axis, which was further confirmed by angle-dependent Q-band EPR spectroscopy. Moreover, a conductive anomaly close to the VT transition temperature was observed only when probes were attached at the ab plane of the single crystal, indicative of synergy between valence tautomerism and conductivity. Structural anisotropy studies and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that this synergy is due to electron transfer associated with valence tautomerism. This study presents the first example of dual-radical-based molecular anisotropy and charge-transfer-induced conductive anisotropy in a photoswitchable coordination polymer.

The Influence of the Substrate on the Functionality of Spin Crossover Molecular Materials

Spin crossover complexes are a route toward designing molecular devices with a facile readout due to the change in conductance that accompanies the change in spin state. Because substrate effects are important for any molecular device, there are increased efforts to characterize the influence of the substrate on the spin state transition. Several classes of spin crossover molecules deposited on different types of surface, including metallic and non-metallic substrates, are comprehensively reviewed here. While some non-metallic substrates like graphite seem to be promising from experimental measurements, theoretical and experimental studies indicate that 2D semiconductor surfaces will have minimum interaction with spin crossover molecules. Most metallic substrates, such as Au and Cu, tend to suppress changes in spin state and affect the spin state switching process due to the interaction at the molecule-substrate interface that lock spin crossover molecules in a particular spin state or mixed spin state. Of course, the influence of the substrate on a spin crossover thin film depends on the molecular film thickness and perhaps the method used to deposit the molecular film.

Ruthenium Azobis(benzothiazole): Electronic Structure and Impact of Substituents on the Electrocatalytic Single-Site Water Oxidation Process

The present article deals with the structurally and spectroelectrochemically characterized newer class of ruthenium-azoheteroarenes [Ru^II(Ph-trpy)(Cl)(L)]ClO₄, [1]ClO₄-[3]ClO₄ (Ph-trpy: 4'-phenyl-2,2':6',2″-terpyridine; L1: 2,2'-azobis(benzothiazole) ([1]ClO₄); L2: 2,2'-azobis(6-methylbenzothiazole) ([2]ClO₄); L3: 2,2'-azobis(6-chlorobenzothiazole) ([3]ClO₄)). A collective consideration of experimental (i.e., structural and spectroelectrochemical) and theoretical (DFT calculations) results of [1]ClO₄-[3]ClO₄ established selective stabilization of (i) the unperturbed azo (N═N)⁰ function of L, (ii) the exclusive presence of the isomeric form involving the N(azo) donor of L trans to Cl, and (iii) the presence of extended, hydrogen-bonded trimeric units in the asymmetric unit of [2]ClO₄ (CH---O) via the involvement of ClO₄^- anions. The detailed electrochemical studies revealed metal-based oxidation of [Ru^II(Ph-trpy)(Cl)(L)]⁺ (1⁺-3⁺) to [Ru^III(Ph-trpy)(Cl)(L)]²⁺ (1²⁺-3²⁺); however, the electronic form of the first reduced state (1-3) could be better represented by its mixed Ru^II(Ph-trpy)(Cl)(L^•-)/Ru^III(Ph-trpy)(Cl)(L^2-) state. Both native (1⁺-3⁺) and reduced (1-3) states exhibited weak lower energy transitions within the range of 1000-1200 nm. Further, [1]ClO₄-[3]ClO₄ delivered an electrochemical OER (oxygen evolution reaction) process in alkaline medium on immobilizing them to a carbon cloth support, which divulged an amplified water oxidation feature for [2]ClO₄ due to the presence of electron-donating methyl groups in the L2 backbone. The faster OER kinetics and high catalytic stability of [2]ClO₄ could also be rationalized by its lowest Tafel slope (85 mV dec^-1) and choronoamperometric experiment (stable up to 12 h), respectively, along with high Faradic efficiency (∼97%). A comparison of [2]ClO₄ with the reported analogous ruthenium complexes furnished its excellent intrinsic water oxidation activity.

Inner-Sphere Electron Transfer Induced Reversible Electron Reservoir Feature of Azoheteroarene Bridged Diruthenium Frameworks

This article demonstrates the stabilization of ground- and redox-induced metal-to-ligand charge transfer excited states on coordination of azo-coupled bmpd(L4) [bmpd = (E)-1,2-bis(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)diazene; L4 = -N═N-] to the electron-rich {Ru(acac)₂} (acac = acetylacetonate) unit in mononuclear Ru^II(acac)₂(L4) (1) and diastereomeric dinuclear (acac)₂Ru^2.5(μ-L4^•-)Ru^2.5(acac)₂ [rac, ΔΔ/ΛΛ (2a)/meso, ΔΛ (2b)] complexes, respectively. It also develops further one-step intramolecular electron transfer induced L4^•- bridged isovalent higher analogue [(acac)₂Ru^III(μ-L4^•-)Ru^III(acac)₂]ClO₄ in diastereomeric forms, rac-[2a]ClO₄/meso-[2b]ClO₄. On the contrary, under identical reaction conditions electronically and sterically permuted bimpd [L5, (E)-1,2-bis(4-iodo-1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)diazene)] delivered mononuclear Ru^II(acac)₂(L5) (3) as an exclusive product. Further, the generation of unprecedented heterotrinuclear complex [(acac)₂Ru^II(μ-L4)Ag^I(μ-L4)Ru^II(acac)₂]ClO₄ ([4]ClO₄) involving unreduced L4 via the reaction of 1 and AgClO₄ revealed the absence of any inner-sphere electron transfer (IET) as in precursor 1, which in turn reaffirmed an IET (at the interface of electron-rich Ru(acac)₂ and acceptor L4) mediated stabilization of 2. Structural authentication of the complexes with special reference to the tunable azo distance (N═N, N-N^•-, N-N^2-) of L and their spectro-electrochemical events in accessible redox states including the reversible electron reservoir feature of 2 → 2⁺/2⁺ → 2 were evaluated in conjunction with density functional theory/time-dependent density functional theory calculations. The varying extent of IET as a function of heteroaromatics appended to the azo group of L (L1 = abpy = 2,2'-azobipyridine, L2 = abbt = 2,2'-azobis(benzothiazole), L3 = abim = azobis(1-methylbenzimidazole), L4 and L5, Schemes 1 & 2) in the Ru(acac)₂-derived respective molecular setup has been addressed.

On the Question of S-S Bond Cleavage of 2,2'-Dithiodipyridine on Selective Ru and Os Platforms. MLCT or Hydride or Solvent Mediated Event

This article deals with the S-S bond scission of the model substrate 2,2'-dithiodipyridine (DTDP) in the presence of a selective set of metal precursors: Ru^II(acac)₂, [Ru^IICl₂(PPh₃)₃], [Ru^IIHCl(CO)(PPh₃)₃], [Ru^II(H)₂(CO)(PPh₃)₃], [Ru^II(bpy)₂Cl₂], [Ru^II(pap)₂Cl₂], [Os^II(bpy)₂Cl₂], and [Os^II(pap)₂Cl₂] (acac, acetylacetonate; bpy, 2,2'-bipyridine; pap, 2-phenylazopyridine). This led to the eventual formation of the corresponding mononuclear complexes containing the cleaved pyridine-2-thiolate unit in 1-4/[5]ClO₄-[8]ClO₄. The formation of the complexes was ascertained by their single-crystal X-ray structures, which also established sterically constrained four-membered chelate (average N1-M-S1 angle of 67.89°) originated from the in situ-generated pyridine-2-thiolate unit. Ruthenium(III)-derived one-electron paramagnetic complexes 1-2 (S = 1/2, magnetic moment/B.M. = 1.82 (1)/1.81(2)) exhibited metal-based anisotropic electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) (Δg: 1/2 = 0.64/0.93, ⟨g⟩: 1/2 = 2.173/2.189) and a broad ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signature due to the contact shift effect. The spectroelectrochemical and electronic structural aspects of the complexes were analyzed experimentally in combination with theoretical calculations of density functional theory (DFT and TD-DFT). The unperturbed feature of DTDP even in refluxing ethanol over a period of 10 h can be attributed to the active participation of the metal fragments in facilitating S-S bond cleavage in 1-4/[5]ClO₄-[8]ClO₄. It also revealed the following three probable pathways toward S-S bond cleavage of DTDP as a function of metal precursors: (i) the metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) (Ru^II → σ* of DTDP)-driven metal oxidation (Ru^II → Ru^III) process in the case of relatively electron-rich metal fragments {Ru^II(acac)₂} or Ru^IICl₂ in 1 or 2, respectively; (ii) metal hydride-assisted formation of 3 or 4 with the concomitant generation of H₂; and (iii) S-S bond reduction with the simultaneous oxidation of the solvent benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde.

Dioxygen Activation by Redox-Active Bis(aldimine) Ligand Bridged Diruthenium Complex Possessing Singlet Ground State

The unexplored 'actor' behavior of redox-active bis(aldimine) congener, p-phenylene-bis(picoline)aldimine (L1), towards dioxygen activation and subsequent functionalization of its backbone was demonstrated on coordination with {Ru(acac)₂ } (acac= acetylacetonate). Reaction under aerobic condition led to the one-pot generation of dinuclear complexes with unperturbed L1, imino-carboxamido (L2^- ), and bis(carboxamido) (L3^2- )-bridged isovalent {Ru^II (μ-L1)Ru^II }, 1/ {Ru^III (μ-L3^2- )Ru^III }, 3 and mixed-valent {Ru^II (μ-L2^- )Ru^III }, 2. Authentication of the complexes along with the redox non-innocence behavior of their bridge have been validated through structure, spectroelectrochemistry and DFT calculations. Kinetic and isotope labelling experiments together with DFT analyzed transition states justified the consideration of redox shuttling at metal/L1 interface for ³ O₂ activation despite of the closed shell configuration of 1 (S=0) to give carboxamido derived 2/3.

Bidirectional noninnocence of hinge-like deprotonated bis-lawsone on selective ruthenium platform: a function of varying ancillary ligands

The present work aimed to obtain discrete heavier metal complexes of unperturbed deprotonated bis-lawsone (hinge-like H₂L = 2,2'-bis(3-hydroxy-1,4-napthoquinone). This is primarily due to its limited examples with lighter metal ions (Co, Zn, and Ga) and the fact that our earlier approach with the osmium ion facilitated its functionalisation. Herein, we demonstrated the successful synthesis and structural characterisation of L^2--derived diruthenium [(bpy)₂Ru^II(μ-L^2-)Ru^II(bpy)₂](ClO₄)₂ [1](ClO₄)₂ (S = 0), (acac)₂Ru^III(μ-L^2-)Ru^III(acac)₂2 (S = 1) and monoruthenium (pap)₂Ru(L^2-) 3 (S = 0) derivatives (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, acac = acetylacetonate, and pap = 2-phenylazopyridine). The crystal structures established that (i) O,O^-/O,O^- donating five-membered bis-bidentate and O^-,O^- donating seven-membered bidentate chelating modes of deprotonated L^2- in rac (ΔΔ/ΛΛ) diastereomeric [1](ClO₄)₂, 2 and 3, respectively. (ii) The L^2- bridging unit in [1](ClO₄)₂, 2 and 3 underwent twisting its two naphthoquinone rings with respect to the ring connecting C-C bond by 73.01°, 62.15° and 59.12°, respectively. (iii) Intermolecular π-π interactions (∼3.5 Å) between the neighbouring molecules. The paramagnetic complex 2 (S = 1) with two non-interacting Ru(III) (S = 1/2) ions exhibited weak antiferromagnetic coupling only at very low temperatures. In agreement with the magnetic results, 2 displayed typical Ru^III-based anisotropic EPR in CH₃CN (<g>/Δg: 2.314/0.564) but without any forbidden g_1/2 signal at 120 K. The complexes exhibited multiple redox processes in CH₃CN in the experimental potential window of ± 2.0 V versus SCE. The analysis of the redox steps via a combined experimental and theoretical (DFT/TD-DFT) approach revealed the involvement of L^2- to varying extents in both the oxidative and reductive processes as a consequence of its bidirectional redox non-innocent feature. The mixing of the frontier orbitals of the metal ion and L^2- due to their closeness in energy indeed led to the resonating electronic form in certain redox states instead of any precise electronic structural state.

Redox-Induced Intramolecular C-C Coupling of Acyclic Bis(2-pyridylmethylene)ethylenediamine on a Ru(acac)2 Platform

The paper documents redox-triggered C-C coupling of acyclic N,N'-bis(2-pyridylmethylene)ethylenediamine (BPE) to yield 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine (DPP) upon coordination to an electron-rich {Ru(acac)₂} (acac = acetylacetonate) unit. This led to DPP-bridged [{Ru(acac)₂}₂(DPP)]^0/+ (2 and [2]ClO₄) along with the unperturbed BPE-bridged [{Ru(acac)₂}₂(BPE)] (1). On the contrary, electron-poor {Ru(Cl)(H)(CO)(PPh₃)₃} yielded BPE-bridged [3](ClO₄)₂ as an exclusive product. Synergistic metal (Ru)-ligand (BPE) redox participation toward chemical noninnocence of the Schiff base ligand and DPP-mediated electronic communication in Ru^IIRu^III-derived [2]ClO₄ are addressed.

Isolation of the elusive bisbenzimidazole Bbim3−˙ radical anion and its employment in a metal complex

The discovery of singular organic radical ligands is a formidable challenge due to high reactivity arising from the unpaired electron. Matching radical ligands with metal ions to engender magnetic coupling is crucial for eliciting preeminent physical properties such as conductivity and magnetism that are crucial for future technologies. The metal-radical approach is especially important for the lanthanide ions exhibiting deeply buried 4f-orbitals. The radicals must possess a high spin density on the donor atoms to promote strong coupling. Combining diamagnetic ⁸⁹Y (I = 1/2) with organic radicals allows for invaluable insight into the electronic structure and spin-density distribution. This approach is hitherto underutilized, possibly owing to the challenging synthesis and purification of such molecules. Herein, evidence of an unprecedented bisbenzimidazole radical anion (Bbim³⁻˙) along with its metalation in the form of an yttrium complex, [K(crypt-222)][(Cp*₂Y)₂(μ-Bbim˙)] is provided. Access of Bbim³⁻˙ was feasible through double-coordination to the Lewis acidic metal ion and subsequent one-electron reduction, which is remarkable as Bbim²⁻ was explicitly stated to be redox-inactive in closed-shell complexes. Two molecules containing Bbim²⁻ (1) and Bbim³⁻˙ (2), respectively, were thoroughly investigated by X-ray crystallography, NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Electrochemical studies unfolded a quasi-reversible feature and emphasize the role of the metal centre for the Bbim redox-activity as neither the free ligand nor the Bbim²⁻ complex led to analogous CV results. Excitingly, a strong delocalization of the electron density through the Bbim³⁻˙ ligand was revealed via temperature-dependent EPR spectroscopy and confirmed through DFT calculations and magnetometry, rendering Bbim³⁻˙ an ideal candidate for single-molecule magnet design.

The long sought-after bisbenzimidazole radical was isolated through complexation to two rare earth metallocenes followed by reduction, and analysed through crystallography, VT EPR spectroscopy, electrochemistry, magnetometry, and DFT computations.

Efficient CO2 reduction over a Ru-pincer complex/TiO2 hybrid photocatalyst via direct Z-scheme mechanism

Solar-driven CO2 conversion to hydrocarbon fuels is a feasible way to solve the increasingly serious energy problem and greenhouse effect. Herein, we fabricate a novel hybrid photocatalyst for CO2 reduction...

Inner-sphere electron transfer at the ruthenium-azo interface

Metal complexes exhibiting multiple reversible redox states have drawn continuing research interest due to their electron reservoir features. In this context, the present article described ruthenium-acac complexes (acac=acetylacetonate) incorporating redox-active...

Radical versus Nonradical States of Azobis(benzothiazole) as a Function of Ancillary Ligands on Selective Ruthenium Platforms

The paper deals with the electronic impact of ancillary ligands on the varying redox features of azobis(benzothiazole) (abbt) in the newly introduced mononuclear ruthenium complexes [Ru(pap)₂(abbt)]ⁿ (1ⁿ) and [Ru(bpy)₂(abbt)]ⁿ (2ⁿ), where pap = 2-phenylazopyridine and bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine. In this regard, the complexes [Ru^II(pap)₂(abbt^•-)]ClO₄ ([1]ClO₄), [Ru^II(pap)₂(abbt⁰)](ClO₄)₂ ([1](ClO₄)₂), [Ru^II(bpy)₂(abbt⁰)](ClO₄)₂ ([2](ClO₄)₂), and [Ru^II(bpy)₂(abbt^•-)]ClO₄ ([2]ClO₄) were structurally and spectroscopically characterized. Unambiguous assignments of the aforestated radical and nonradical forms of abbt in 1⁺/2⁺ and 1²⁺/2²⁺, respectively, were made primarily based on their redox-sensitive azo (N═N) bond distances as well as by their characteristic electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR)/NMR signatures. Although the radical form of abbt^•- was isolated as an exclusive product in the case of strongly π-acidic pap-derived 1⁺, the corresponding moderately π-acidic bpy ancillary ligand primarily delivered an oxidized form of abbt⁰ in 2²⁺, along with the radical form in 2⁺ as a minor (<10%) component. The oxidized abbt⁰-derived [1](ClO₄)₂ was, however, obtained via the chemical oxidation of [1]ClO₄. Both 1⁺ and 2²⁺ displayed multiple closed by reversible redox processes (one oxidation O1 and four successive reductions R1-R4) within the potential window of ±2.0 V versus saturated calomel electrode. The involvement of metal-, ligand-, or metal/ligand-based frontier molecular orbitals along the redox chain was assigned based on the combined experimental (structure, EPR, and spectroelectrochemisry) and theoretical [density functional theory (DFT): molecular orbitals, Mulliken spin densities/time-dependent DFT] investigations. It revealed primarily ligand (abbt/pap or bpy)-based redox activities, keeping the metal ion as a simple spectator. Moreover, frontier molecular orbital analysis corroborated the initial isolation of the radical and nonradical species for the pap-derived 1⁺ and bpy-derived 2²⁺ as well as facile reduction of pap and abbt in 1⁺ and 2⁺, respectively.

Metal-Organic Frameworks with Novel Catenane-like Interlocking: Metal-Determined Photoresponse and Uranyl Sensing

The assembly of two tripyridinium-tricarboxylate ligands and different metal ions leads to seven isostructural MOFs, which show novel 2D→2D supramolecular entanglement featuring catenane-like interlocking of tricyclic cages. The MOFs show tripyridinium-afforded and metal-modulated photoresponsive properties. The MOFs with d¹⁰ metal centers (1-Cd, 1-Zn, 2-Cd, 2-Zn) show fast and reversible photochromism and concomitant fluorescence quenching, 1-Ni displays slower photochromism but does not fluoresce, and 1-Co and 2-Co are neither photochromic nor fluorescent. It is shown here that the network entanglement dictates donor-acceptor close contacts, which enable fluorescence originated from interligand charge transfer. The contacts also allow photoinduced electron transfer, which underlies photochromism and concomitant fluorescence response. The metal dependence in fluorescence and photochromism can be related to energy transfer through metal-centered d-d transitions. In addition, 1-Cd is demonstrated to be a potential fluorescence sensor for sensitive and selective detection of UO₂ ²⁺ in water.

Redox induced oxidative C-C coupling of non-innocent bis(heterocyclo)methanides

Redox driven C-C bond formation has gained recent attention over the traditional sequence of oxidative addition, insertion and reductive elimination reactions. In this regard, the transient radical mediated diverse reactivity profile of bis(heterocyclo)methanes (H-BHM: HL1-HL4) has been demonstrated as a function of varying metal ions and ligand backbones. It highlighted the following events: (a) redox induced homocoupling of deprotonated HL1 and HL4 on coordination to M(OAc)₂ precursors (M = Cu^II, Zn^II, Pd^II, Ag^I), including the effective role of molecular oxygen in the transformation process; (b) steric inhibition of C-C coupling of HL1 or HL4 on inserting the substituent at the bridged methylene centre (Ph in HL2 or CH₃ in HL3); (c) competitive C-C coupling versus oxygenation of free HL1 with varying concentrations of Pd^II(OAc)₂ as the ease of oxygenation over dimerisation of the deprotonated HL1 was corroborated by the DFT calculated lower activation barrier and greater thermodynamic stability of the former; and (d) redox non-innocence of BHMs on a coordinatively inert ruthenium platform, which in turn favored the involvement of a radical pathway for the aforestated coupling or oxygenation process. A combined structural, spectroscopic and DFT calculated transition state analysis demonstrated the mechanistic outline for the metal assisted oxidative coupling of BHMs.

A Copper(I) Complex with Two Unpaired Electrons, Synthesised by Oxidation of a Copper(II) Complex with Two Redox-Active Ligands

Two homoleptic copper(II) complexes [Cu(L1)2 ] and [Cu(L2)2 ] with anionic redox-active ligands were synthesised, one with urea azine (L1) and the other with thio-urea azine (L2) ligands. One-electron oxidation of the complexes initiates an unprecedented redox-induced electron transfer process, leading to monocationic copper(I) complexes [Cu(L1)2 ]+ and [Cu(L2)2 ]+ with two oxidised ligands. While [Cu(L1)2 ]+ is best described as a CuI complex with two neutral radical ligands that couple antiferromagnetically, [Cu(L2)2 ]+ is a CuI complex with two clearly different ligand units in the solid state and with a magnetic susceptibility close to a diamagnetic compound. Further one-electron oxidation of the complex with L1 ligands results in a dication [Cu(L1)2 ]2+ , best described as a CuI complex with a twofold oxidised, monocationic ligand and a neutral radical ligand. The stability in at least three redox states, the accumulation of spin density at the ligands and the facile ligand-metal electron transfer make these complexes highly attractive for a variety of applications; here the catalytic aerobic oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes is tested.

Redox induced S-S bond cleavage of 2,2'-dithiobisbenzothiazole - leading to a [2Ru-2S] core analogous to [2Fe-2S] cluster

Facile reduction of 2,2'-dithiobisbenzothiazole by the mediation of metal-to-ligand charge transfer or by internal reducing equivalent is demonstrated. It leads to various binding modes of thiolates (κ¹, κ², μ) in a series of mononuclear and dinuclear ruthenium complexes. The dinuclear complex exhibited electron transfer processes similar to a [2Fe-2S] cluster.

Osmium(II)-Coordination Induced C-C Bond Functionalization of Bis-lawsone

Metal-coordination-driven C-C bond functionalization without involvement of the traditional route of oxidative addition, insertion, and reductive elimination has gained immense importance. In this context, the present Communication highlights the facile ring contraction process of the deprotonated bis-lawsone (L^2-) to functionalized L1^2- upon coordination to {Os(bpy)₂} or isomeric {Os(pap)₂} (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine and pap = 2-phenylazopyridine) in 1-3. Further, recognition of fractional redox noninnocence of L1 in 1⁺-3⁺ via experimental and theoretical events facilitated its inclusion in the redox noninnocent family.

Noninnocence of the deprotonated 1,2-bis((1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methylene)hydrazine bridge in diruthenium frameworks - a function of co-ligands

The article deals with the sensitive electronic forms in accessible redox states of structurally and spectroscopically authenticated deprotonated 1,2-bis((1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methylene)hydrazine (H2LR, R = H) or 1,2-bis((3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methylene)hydrazine (H2LR, R = Me), a BODIPY analogue bridged diruthenium complex as a function of varying ancillary ligands. It involved rac-(acac)2RuIII(μ-LR 2-)RuIII(acac)21a, R = H; 1b, R = Me (S = 1, acac = acetylacetonate), rac-[(bpy)2RuII(μ-L2-)RuII(bpy)2](ClO4)2 [2](ClO4)2 (S = 0, bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine) and diastereomeric [(pap)2RuII(μ-L2-)RuII(pap)2](ClO4)2meso-[3a](ClO4)2/rac-[3b](ClO4)2 (S = 0, pap = phenylazopyridine). The crystal structure established the linkage of the conjugated -C5[double bond, length as m-dash]N2-N3[double bond, length as m-dash]C6- central unit with the two terminal deprotonated pyrrole units of coordinated L2-. The bridging L2- in 1a, 1b, [2](ClO4)2, [3b](ClO4)2 and [3a](ClO4)2 was slightly twisted and planar with torsional angles of 41.54°, 42.91°, 37.38°, 35.33° and 0°, respectively, with regard to the central N2-N3 bond. The extent of twisting of the bridge followed an inverse relationship with the RuRu separation: 4.935/4.934 Å 1a/1b < 5.141 Å [2](ClO4)2 < 5.201 Å [3b](ClO4)2 < 5.351 Å [3a](ClO4)2. This is also attributed to the intermolecular ππ/CHπ interactions between the nearby aromatic rings of L and bpy or pap in [2](ClO4)2 or [3](ClO4)2, respectively. The multiple redox steps of the complexes varied appreciably based on the σ-donating (acac) and π-acidic (bpy, pap) characteristics of the ancillary ligands. Experimental (structure, EPR) and theoretical (DFT) evaluation pertaining to the electronic forms of 1n, 2n and 3n demonstrated the preferential involvement of L based frontier orbitals in electron transfer processes even in combination with the redox facile ruthenium ion. This in turn highlighted its redox non-innocent feature as in the case of well-documented metal coordinated quinonoid, formazanate, diimine (bpy), azo (pap) and β-diketiminate functions.