Copper(I) halides: A versatile family in coordination chemistry and crystal engineering

Organo Chalcogenone-Triggered Luminescent Copper(I) Clusters for Light Emitting Applications

A novel organo sulfur and selenium-controlled emission behavior in discrete copper(I) clusters has been demonstrated for the first time. The pentanuclear [Cu5Br5(L1)2] (1), trinuclear [Cu3Br3(L2)2] (2), dinuclear [Cu2I2(L1)2] (3), and tetranuclear [Cu4I4(L2)2CH3CN] (4) copper(I) discrete clusters have been synthesized from the reaction between L1 [L1 = 1-isopropyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-imidazol-2-thione] or L2 [L2 = 1-isopropyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-imidazol-2-selone] chelating ligands and corresponding copper(I) halide salts. These new clusters have been characterized by FT-IR, UV-visible, thermogravimetric analysis, and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies reveal that 1-4 consists of abundant d10-d10 interactions. The structural and bonding features of clusters have been investigated using density functional theory calculations. Notably, the L2-ligated 2 and 4 are poorly emissive, while L1-ligated 1 and 3 showed strong emission in the orange and green regions, respectively. The time-dependent density functional theory natural transition orbital calculations of 1 and 3 reveal the nature of the transitions contributed by 3MLCT/3LLCT/3ILCT. Photoluminescence quantum yields of 1 and 3 are 19 and 11%, with average lifetimes of 21.55 and 6.57 μs, respectively. 1 and 3 were coated on prototype LED bulbs for light-emitting performance.

Ultrastable Copper Iodide Hybrid with Intrinsic Greenish White-Light Emission by Incorporating an Anionic Inorganic Functional Unit into an Extended Structure

Incorporating a functional unit into the multidimensional coordination polymer skeleton is an efficient way to improve the stability of materials and expand their application. In this paper, anionic copper iodide inorganic functional modules are incorporated into one-dimensional extended chains by using a unique bidentate cationic organic ligand. Benefiting from the ionic extended structure, the resulting hybrid possesses a remarkable stability with a decomposition temperature as high as 300 °C. Meanwhile, the hybrid material exhibits intrinsic greenish white-light emission with a high photoluminescent quantum yield of 70%. The emission was investigated by temperature-dependent emission spectra, which proved to be the result of the synergistic effect of two energy states. The novel synthetic strategy provides an efficient route for the development of functional organic metal halides.

A Porphyrin-Based 3D Metal-Organic Framework Featuring [Cu8Cl6]10+ Cluster Secondary Building Units: Synthesis, Structure Elucidation, Anion Exchange, and Peroxidase-Like Activity

Herein, we report a rare example of cationic three-dimensional (3D) metal-organic framework (MOF) of [Cu5Cl3(TMPP)]Cl5 ⋅ xSol (denoted as Cu-TMPP; H2TMPP=meso-tetrakis (6-methylpyridin-3-yl) porphyrin; xSol=encapsulated solvates) supported by [Cu8Cl6]10+ cluster secondary building units (SBUs) wherein the eight faces of the Cl--based octahedron are capped by eight Cu2+. Surface-area analysis indicated that Cu-TMPP features a mesoporous structure and its solvate-like Cl- counterions can be exchanged by BF4 -, PF6 -, and NO3 -. The polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) coated Cu-TMPP (denoted as Cu-TMPP-PVP) demonstrated good ROS generating ability, producing ⋅OH in the absence of light (peroxidase-like activity) and 1O2 on light irradiation (650 nm; 25 mW cm-2). This work highlights the potential of Cu-TMPP as a functional carrier of anionic guests such as drugs, for the combination therapy of cancer and other diseases.

Understanding Cu(i) local environments in MOFs via63/65Cu NMR spectroscopy

The field of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) includes a vast number of hybrid organic and inorganic porous materials with wide-ranging applications. In particular, the Cu(i) ion exhibits rich coordination chemistry in MOFs and can exist in two-, three-, and four-coordinate environments, which gives rise to many structural motifs and potential applications. Direct characterization of the structurally and chemically important Cu(i) local environments is essential for understanding the sources of specific MOF properties. For the first time, 63/65Cu solid-state NMR has been used to investigate a variety of Cu(i) sites and local coordination geometries in Cu MOFs. This approach is a sensitive probe of the local Cu environment, particularly when combined with density functional theory calculations. A wide range of structurally-dependent 63/65Cu NMR parameters have been observed, including 65Cu quadrupolar coupling constants ranging from 18.8 to 74.8 MHz. Using the data from this and prior studies, a correlation between Cu quadrupolar coupling constants, Cu coordination number, and local Cu coordination geometry has been established. Links between DFT-calculated and experimental Cu NMR parameters are also presented. Several case studies illustrate the feasibility of 63/65Cu NMR for investigating and resolving inequivalent Cu sites, monitoring MOF phase changes, interrogating the Cu oxidation number, and characterizing the product of a MOF chemical reaction involving Cu(ii) reduction to Cu(i). A convenient avenue to acquire accurate 65Cu NMR spectra and NMR parameters from Cu(i) MOFs at a widely accessible magnetic field of 9.4 T is described, with a demonstrated practical application for tracking Cu(i) coordination evolution during MOF anion exchange. This work showcases the power of 63/65Cu solid-state NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations for molecular-level characterization of Cu(i) centers in MOFs, along with the potential of this protocol for investigating a wide variety of MOF structural changes and processes important for practical applications. This approach has broad applications for examining Cu(i) centers in other weight-dilute systems.

1D Cu(I)-based chiral organic-inorganic hybrid material with second harmonic generation and circular polarized luminescence

In recent years, organic-inorganic hybrid materials have demonstrated exceptional performance in nonlinear optics, attracting widespread attention. However, there are relatively few examples of coordination compounds synthesized with Cu as the metal center that exhibit excellent nonlinear optical properties. In this study, we successfully synthesized a pair of enantiomers named R/S-Cu2I2 by reacting chiral ligands with CuI. The crystal structure reveals a one-dimensional copper-iodide chain structure built by Cu2I2 clusters, and its ordered arrangement in space provides not only a strong second harmonic generation (SHG) signal (1.24 × KDP) but also a large birefringence (0.15@1064 nm). Under excitation at 395 nm, the crystals exhibit red fluorescence peaked at 675 nm. The CD spectra of R/S-Cu2I2 show a distinct mirror-symmetric Cotton effect, and their CPL signals are corresponding and opposite in the emission range, with a maximum glum of approximately ±2.5 × 10-3. Theoretical calculations using density functional theory were also carried out to enhance our understanding of the correlation between their structures and optical properties.

Synthesis, crystal structure and thermal properties of di-bromido-bis-(2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide-κO)cobalt(II)

Reaction of CoBr2 with 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide in n-butanol leads to the formation of the title compound, [CoBr2(C6H7NO)2] or [CoBr2(2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide)2]. Its asymmetric unit consists of one CoII cation as well as two bromide anions and two 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide coligands in general positions. The CoII cations are tetra-hedrally coordinated by two bromide anions and two 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxides, forming discrete complexes. In the crystal structure, these complexes are linked predominantly by weak C-H⋯Br hydrogen bonding into chains that propagate along the crystallographic a-axis. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) measurements indicate that a pure phase was obtained. Thermoanalytical investigations prove that the title compound melts before decomposition; before melting, a further endothermic signal of unknown origin was observed that does not correspond to a phase transition.

Design of luminescent complexes with different Cu4I4 cores based on pyridyl phenoxarsines

A series of luminescent Cu4I4 clusters with stair-step, cubane, and octahedral geometries supported by a novel type of cyclic As,N-ligand, pyridyl-containing 10-phenoxarsines, were synthesized and characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. An unusual arrangement of As,N-bidentate and μ2-iodo ligands was found in the octahedral cluster. The structural diversity of the Cu(I) complexes is reflected in their photophysical properties: the phosphorescence spectra of the compounds display emission in a broad spectral range of 495-597 nm. The complex with the Cu4I4L2 stoichiometry bearing a stair-step Cu4I4 core demonstrates temperature-dependent dual emission. The luminescence properties of all complexes were rationalized by DFT calculations.

Copper(I) Complexes of Amide Functionalized Bisphosphine: Proximity Enhanced Metal-Ligand Cooperativity and Its Catalytic Advantage in C(sp3)-H Bond Activation of Unactivated Cycloalkanes in Dehydrogenative Carboxylation Reactions

The reactions of amide functionalized bisphosphine, o-Ph2PC6H4C-(O)N(H)C6H4PPh2-o (1) (BalaHariPhos), with copper salts is described. Treatment of 1 with CuX in a 1:1 molar ratio yielded chelate complexes of the type [CuX{(o-Ph2PC6H4C(O)N(H)C6H4PPh2-o)}-κ2-P,P] (X = Cl, 2; Br, 3; and I, 4), which on subsequent treatment with KOtBu resulted in a dimeric complex [Cu(o-Ph2PC6H4C(O)(N)C6H4PPh2-o)]2 (5). Interestingly, complexes 2-4 showed weak N-H···Cu interactions. These weak H-bonding interactions are studied in detail both experimentally and computationally. Also, CuI complexes 2-5 were employed in the oxidative dehydrogenative carboxylation (ODC) of unactivated cycloalkanes in the presence of carboxylic acids to form the corresponding allylic esters. Among complexes 2-5, halide-free dimeric CuI complex 5 showed excellent metal-ligand cooperativity in the oxidative dehydrogenative carboxylation (ODC) in the presence of carboxylic acids to form the corresponding allylic esters through C(sp3)-H bond activation of unactivated cycloalkanes. Mechanistic details of the catalytic process were established by isolating the precatalyst [Cu{(o-Ph2PC6H4C(O)(NH)C6H4PPh2-o)-κ2-P,P}(OOCPh)] (6) and fully characterized by mass spectrometry, NMR data, and single-crystal X-ray analysis. Density functional theory-based calculations further provided a quantitative understanding of the energetics of a series of H atom transfer steps occurring in the catalytic cycle.

Cubane Dimerization: Cu4 vs Cu8 Copper Iodide Clusters

Copper(I) halides are well-known for their structural diversity and rich photoluminescence properties, showing great potential for the development of solid-state lighting technology. A series of four molecular copper iodide clusters based on the [Cu4I4] cubane geometry is reported. Among them, [Cu8I8] octanuclear clusters of rare geometry resulting from dimerization of the tetranuclear counterparts were also synthesized. Two different phosphine ligands were studied, bearing either a styrene or an ethyl group. Therefore, the effect of the dimerization and of the ligand nature on the photophysical properties of the resulting clusters is investigated. The structural differences were analyzed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD), solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared, and Raman analyses. Compared to the ethyl group, the styrene function appears to greatly impact the photophysical properties of the clusters. The luminescence thermochromic properties of the ethyl derivatives and the intriguing photophysical properties of the clusters with styrene function were rationalized by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Thus, the styrene group significantly lowers in energy the vacant orbitals and consequently affects the global energetic layout of the clusters. From this study, it was found that the nuclearity of copper iodide clusters eventually has less influence on the photophysical properties than the nature of the ligand. The design of proper ligands should therefore be considered when developing materials for specific lighting applications.

Synthesis, crystal structure and thermal properties of poly[[μ-1,2-bis-(pyridin-4-yl)ethene-κ2N:N'-μ-bromido-copper(I)] 1,2-bis-(pyridin-4-yl)ethene 0.25-solvate]

The reaction of copper(I) bromide with 1,2-bis-(pyridin-4-yl)ethene in aceto-nitrile leads to the formation of the title compound, {[CuBr(C12H10N2)]·0.25C12H10N2}n or CuBr(4-bpe)·0.25(4-bpe) [4-bpe = 1,2-bis-(pyridin-4-yl)ethene]. The asymmetric unit consists of one copper(I) cation and one bromide anion in general positions as well as two crystallographically independent half 4-bpe ligands and a quarter of a disordered 4-bpe solvate mol-ecule that are completed by centers of inversion. The copper(I) cations are tetra-hededrally coordinated as CuBr2N2 and linked by pairs of μ-1,1-bridging bromide anions into centrosymmetric dinuclear units that are further connected into layers by the 4-bpe coligands. Between the layers, inter-layer C-H⋯Br hydrogen bonding is observed. The layers are arranged in such a way that cavities are formed in which the disordered 4-bpe solvate mol-ecules are located. Powder X-ray (PXRD) investigations reveal that a pure sample has been obtained. Thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermoanalysis (DTA) measurements show two mass losses that are accompanied by endothermic events in the DTA curve. The first mass loss correspond to the removal of 0.75 4-bpe mol-ecules, leading to the formation of (CuBr)2(4-bpe), already reported in the literature as proven by PXRD.

Synthesis, crystal structure and reactivity of bis-(μ-2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide-κ2O:O)bis-[di-bromido-(2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide-κO)cobalt(II)] butanol monosolvate

Reaction of CoBr2 with 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide in n-butanol leads to the formation of the title compound, [CoBr2]2(2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide)4·n-butanol or [Co2Br4(C6H7NO)4]·C4H10O. The asymmetric unit of the title compound consists of one CoII cation as well as two bromide anions and two 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide coligands in general positions and one n-butanol mol-ecule that is disordered around a center of inversion. The CoII cations are fivefold coordinated by two bromide anions and one terminal as well as two bridging 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide and linked by two symmetry-related μ-1,1(O,O) 2-methyl-pyridine N-oxide coligands into dinuclear units that are located on centers of inversion. In the crystal structure, the dinuclear units are also connected via pairs of C-H⋯Br hydrogen bonds into chains that elongate in the b-axis direction. The n-butanol mol-ecules are located between the chains and are linked via O-H⋯Br hydrogen bonds each to one chain. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) measurements reveal that a pure phase has been obtained. Measurements using thermogravimetry and differential thermoanalysis shows one mass loss up to 523 K, in which the n-butanol mol-ecules are removed. PXRD measurements of the residue obtained after n-butanol removal shows that a completely different crystalline phase has been obtained and IR investigations indicate significant structural changes in the Co coordination.

Confinement of 1D Chain and 2D Layered CuI Modules in K-INA-R Frameworks via Coordination Assembly: Structure Regulation and Semiconductivity Tuning

Herein, we present a new series of CuI-based hybrid materials with tunable structures and semiconducting properties. The CuI inorganic modules can be tailored into a one-dimensional (1D) chain and two-dimensional (2D) layer and confined/stabilized in coordination frameworks of potassium isonicotinic acid (HINA) and its derivatives (HINA-R, R = OH, NO2, and COOH). The resulting CuI-based hybrid materials exhibit interesting semiconducting behaviors associated with the dimensionality of the inorganic module; for instance, the structures containing the 2D-CuI module demonstrate significantly enhanced photoconductivity with a maximum increase of five orders of magnitude compared to that of the structures containing the 1D-CuI module. They also represent the first CuI-bearing hybrid chemiresistive gas sensors for NO2 with boosted sensing performance and sensitivity at multiple orders of magnitude over that of the pristine CuI. Particularly, the sensing ability of CuI-K-INA containing both 1D- and 2D-CuI modules is comparable to those of the best NO2 chemiresistors reported thus far.

Robust and highly emissive copper(I) halide 1D-coordination polymers with triphenylarsine and a series of bridging N-heteroaromatic co-ligands

Various 1D-coordination polymers with dinuclear rhombic {Cu2X2} cores (X = Br, I) were synthesized using a spontaneous evaporation method employing triphenylarsine (AsPh3) and six types of bidentate N-heteroaromatic co-ligands. The coordination polymers exhibited intense emission even at 298 K (quantum yield: up to 0.60), and their emission color was dependent on the N-heteroaromatic co-ligand. The emission efficiencies of these coordination polymers were higher than those of the discrete complexes with AsPh3 and monodentate N-heteroaromatic co-ligands reported in our previous work. In addition, the luminescence of these coordination polymers was more resistant to mechanical stimuli than that of the discrete ones.

Addressing the gaps in homeostatic mechanisms of copper and copper dithiocarbamate complexes in cancer therapy: a shift from classical platinum-drug mechanisms

The platinum drug, cisplatin, is considered as among the most successful medications in cancer treatment. However, due to its inherent toxicity and resistance limitations, research into other metal-based non-platinum anticancer medications with diverse mechanisms of action remains an active field. In this regard, copper complexes feature among non-platinum compounds which have shown promising potential as effective anticancer drugs. Moreover, the interesting discovery that cancer cells can alter their copper homeostatic processes to develop resistance to platinum-based treatments leads to suggestions that some copper compounds can indeed re-sensitize cancer cells to these drugs. In this work, we review copper and copper complexes bearing dithiocarbamate ligands which have shown promising results as anticancer agents. Dithiocarbamate ligands act as effective ionophores to convey the complexes of interest into cells thereby influencing the metal homeostatic balance and inducing apoptosis through various mechanisms. We focus on copper homeostasis in mammalian cells and on our current understanding of copper dysregulation in cancer and recent therapeutic breakthroughs using copper coordination complexes as anticancer drugs. We also discuss the molecular foundation of the mechanisms underlying their anticancer action. The opportunities that exist in research for these compounds and their potential as anticancer agents, especially when coupled with ligands such as dithiocarbamates, are also reviewed.

Zero-dimensional Cu(I)-based organometallic halide with green cluster-centred emission for high resolution X-ray imaging screens

In this communication, we report a low-dimensional perovskite-related structure based on Cu(I) organometallic halide with strong green cluster-centred emission and near-unity photoluminescence quantum yield. The 0D [Rb(18-crown-6)]₂Cu₄I₆ was sucessfully applied for X-ray imaging screens which exhibit high spatial resolution of 16.8 lp mm^-1 and low detection limit of 458 nGy s^-1.

A new subclass of copper(I) hybrid emitters showing TADF with near-unity quantum yields and a strong solvatochromic effect

We introduce here a new subclass of copper(I) hybrid emitters simultaneously containing [Cu_xI_y]^z- anions and Cu⁺ cations, separated in space by a Janus head ligand. When UV-irradiated at 298 K, these unique "Two-In-One" hybrids exhibit a short-lived green TADF with near-unity quantum yield and a strong solvatochromic effect. Moreover, they manifest a strong radioluminescence upon X-ray irradiation. These findings open up new possibilities for the design of highly performing TADF materials.

A family of CuI-based 1D polymers showing colorful short-lived TADF and phosphorescence induced by photo- and X-ray irradiation

Exploiting 2-(alkylsulfonyl)pyridines as 1,3-N,S-ligands, herein we have constructed 1D CuI-based coordination polymers (CPs) bearing unprecedented (CuI)_n chains and possessing remarkable photophysical properties. At room temperature, these CPs show efficient TADF, phosphorescence or dual emission in the deep-blue to red range with outstandingly short decay times of 0.4-2.0 μs and good quantum performance. Owing to great structural diversity, the CPs demonstrate a variety of emissive mechanisms, spanning from TADF of ¹(M + X)LCT type to ³CC and ³(M + X)LCT phosphorescence. Moreover, the designed compounds emit strong X-ray radioluminescence with the quantum efficiency of up to an impressive 55% relative to all-inorganic BGO scintillators. The presented findings push the boundaries in designing TADF and triplet emitters with very short decay times.

Linear optical afterglow and nonlinear optical harmonic generation from chiral tin(IV) halides: the role of lattice distortions

The striking chemical variability of hybrid organic-inorganic metal halides (HOMHs) endows them with fascinating optoelectronic properties. The inorganic skeletons of HOMHs are often flexible and their lattice deformations could serve as an effective factor for enabling the functionalities of HOMHs. Here, the linear and nonlinear optical properties of zero-dimensional (0D) tin(IV) halides have been tuned by structural distortion facilitated by the chiral amines. Enantiopure α-methylbenzyl ammoniums (XMBA, X = Cl, F) effectively transfer their chirality to the inorganic scaffolds when forming the tin(IV) halides, which enables polar arrangements in their crystals and leads to outstanding second-order nonlinear optical performances. In contrast, the racemic mixture of R- and S-FMBA results in the formation of HOMHs with room temperature phosphorescence. The lower lattice deformation in (rac-FMBA)₂SnCl₆ restrains the non-radiative decay from electron-phonon coupling and facilitates the photoluminescence. Meanwhile, the marked π-π interaction stabilizes the T₁ state for phosphorescent emission. These distinct linear and nonlinear optical properties denote the important role that the lattice distortion plays in tuning the optical properties of low-dimensional HOMHs, and offer a promising perspective of 0D tin(IV) halides for applications in optoelectronic materials and devices.

Highly Effective Hybrid Copper(I) Iodide Cluster Emitter with Negative Thermal Quenched Phosphorescence for X-Ray Imaging

The low efficiency triplet emission of hybrid copper(I) iodide clusters is a critical obstacle to their further practical optoelectronic application. Herein, we present an efficient hybrid copper(I) iodide cluster emitter (DBA)₄ Cu₄ I₄ , where the cooperation of excited state structure reorganization and the metallophilicity interaction enables ultra-bright triplet yellow-orange emission with a photoluminescence quantum yield over 94.9 %, and the phonon-assisted de-trapping process of exciton induces the negative thermal quenching effect at 80-300 K. We also investigate the potential of this emitter for X-ray imaging. The (DBA)₄ Cu₄ I₄ wafer demonstrates a light yield higher than 10⁴  photons MeV^-1 and a high spatial resolution of ≈5.0 lp mm^-1 , showing great potential in practical X-ray imaging applications. Our new copper(I) iodide cluster emitter can serve as a model for investigating the thermodynamic mechanism of photoluminescence in hybrid copper(I) halide phosphorescence materials.

Charge-Assisted Halogen Bonding in an Ionic Cavity of a Coordination Cage Based on a Copper(I) Iodide Cluster

The design of molecular containers capable of selectively binding specific guest molecules presents an interesting synthetic challenge in supramolecular chemistry. Here, we report the synthesis and structure of a coordination cage assembled from Cu₃ I₄ ^- clusters and tripodal cationic N-donor ligands. Owing to the localized permanent charges in the ligand core the cage binds iodide anions in specific regions within the cage through ionic interactions. This allows the selective binding of bromomethanes as secondary guest species within the cage promoted by halogen bonding, which was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.

Stable Cuprous Hydroxide Nanostructures by Organic Ligand Functionalization

Copper compounds have been extensively investigated for diverse applications. However, studies of cuprous hydroxide (CuOH) have been scarce due to structural metastability. Herein, a facile, wet-chemistry procedure is reported for the preparation of stable CuOH nanostructures via deliberate functionalization with select organic ligands, such as acetylene and mercapto derivatives. The resulting nanostructures are found to exhibit a nanoribbon morphology consisting of small nanocrystals embedded within a largely amorphous nanosheet-like scaffold. The acetylene derivatives are found to anchor onto the CuOH forming CuC linkages, whereas CuS interfacial bonds are formed with the mercapto ligands. Effective electronic coupling occurs at the ligand-core interface in the former, in contrast to mostly non-conjugated interfacial bonds in the latter, as manifested in spectroscopic measurements and confirmed in theoretical studies based on first principles calculations. Notably, the acetylene-capped CuOH nanostructures exhibit markedly enhanced photodynamic activity in the inhibition of bacteria growth, as compared to the mercapto-capped counterparts due to a reduced material bandgap and effective photocatalytic generation of reactive oxygen species. Results from this study demonstrate that deliberate structural engineering with select organic ligands is an effective strategy in the stabilization and functionalization of CuOH nanostructures, a critical first step in exploring their diverse applications.

Structure and emission properties of dinuclear copper(i) complexes with pyridyltriazole

A new series of five highly emissive binuclear heteroleptic pyridyltriazole-Cu(i)-phosphine complexes 1-5 was synthesized and examined by different experimental (IR, elemental and thermogravimetric analysis, single crystal X-ray diffraction technique, UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy) and quantum chemical aproaches. Complexes 1-5 exhibited excellent stimuli-responsive photoluminescent performance in the solid state at room temperature (quantum yield (QY) = 27.5-52.0%; lifetime (τ) = 8.3-10.7 μs) and when the temperature was lowered to 77 K (QY = 38.3-88.2; τ = 17.8-134.7 μs). The highest QY was examined for complex 3 (52%) that can be explained by the small structural changes between the ground S₀ and exited S₁ and T₁ states leading to the small S₁-T₁ triplet gap and efficient thermally-activated delayed fluorescence. Moreover, complex 4 demonstrates reversible mechanochromic and excitation dependent luminescence.

Cu(I) Metal-Organic Framework Composites with AgCl/Ag Nanoparticles for Irradiation-Enhanced Antibacterial Activity against E. coli

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as prospective antibacterial agents or synergistic agents for their versatile chemical building components and structures. In this work, copper(I) halide MOFs of Cu(I)bpyCl (bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine) composited with AgCl/Ag nanoparticles were synthesized, and their antibacterial activities were measured against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The attached chlorine in Cu(I)₂Cl₂ nodes of the MOFs served as loading sites for silver ions, in which AgCl and concomitant metallic Ag nanoparticles were in situ generated. Exceptional antibacterial activity against E. coli was realized with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ∼7.8 μg mL^-1, while the MIC value was ∼16 μg mL^-1 against S. aureus. Enhanced antibacterial activity against E. coli with light irradiation was measured by the disk diffusion method compared with that under dark conditions.

Green Emissive Copper(I) Coordination Polymer Supported by the Diethylpyridylphosphine Ligand as a Luminescent Sensor for Overheating Processes

Tertiary diethylpyridylphosphine was synthesized by the reaction of pyridylphosphine with bromoethane in a suberbasic medium. The reaction of phosphine with the copper(I) iodide led to the formation of a copper(I) coordination polymer, which, according to the X-ray diffraction data, has an intermediate structure with a copper-halide core between the octahedral and stairstep geometries of the Cu₄I₄ clusters. The obtained coordination polymer exhibits a green emission in the solid state, which is caused by the ³(M+X)LCT transitions. The heating up of the copper(I) coordination polymer to 138.5 °C results in its monomerization and the formation of a new solid-state phase. The new phase exhibits a red emission, with the emission band maximum at 725 nm. According to the experimental data and quantum chemical computations, it was concluded that depolymerization probably leads to a complex that is formed with the octahedral structure of the copper-halide core. The resulting solid-state phase can be backward-converted to the polymer phase via recrystallization from the acetone or DMF. Therefore, the obtained coordination polymer can be considered a sensor or detector for the overheating of processes that should be maintained at temperatures below 138 °C (e.g., engines, boiling liquids, solar heat systems, etc.).

Photoactive CuI-Cross-Linked Polyurethane Materials

Using multinuclear copper iodide complexes as cross-linking agents in a polyurethane matrix, original photoluminescent stimuli-responsive materials were synthesized. The intrinsic photoluminescence properties of the covalently incorporated copper iodide complexes are thus transferred to the materials while retaining the beneficial characteristics of the polymer host. The transparent materials exhibit room-temperature phosphorescence with emission switching properties by displaying luminescence thermochromism and solvatochromism. The luminescence thermochromism is characterized by a change in the wavelength and intensity of the emission with temperature, and the vapochromic effect presents a contrasted response of extinction or exaltation according to the nature of the solvent of exposure. By combining the luminescence characteristics of photoactive copper iodide complexes with the ease of polymer processing, the application of these luminescent materials as phosphors in LED (light-emitting diode) devices was also demonstrated. The present study shows that the use of copper iodide complexes as cross-linkers in polymeric materials is a relevant strategy to design materials with enhanced functionalities in addition to their low cost and sustainable characteristics.

Copper Iodide Cluster Incorporated Luminescent Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Coating Exhibiting Both Corrosion Protection and Antibacterial Properties

A photoluminescent organic-inorganic hybrid coating is synthesized by the incorporation of an emissive Cu₄I₄ core into a cross-linked coating network through Cu-P coordination bonds. The hybrid coating not only emits strong yellow emission under UV-light irradiation but also exhibits corrosion protection of the metallic surface. Moreover, bactericidal properties are studied that were first reported for Cu₄I₄-based hybrid light-emitting materials.

Thermal Enhancement of Luminescence for Negative Thermal Expansion in Molecular Materials

Overcoming thermal quenching is an essential issue in the practical application of luminescent materials. Herein, we found that negative thermal expansion (NTE) can achieve the thermal enhancement of luminescence in molecular materials based on three metal-organic frameworks CuX-bpy (X = Cl, Br, I; bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine). All complexes exhibit NTE on the c-axis, and the strongest NTE leads to a contraction of the Cu...Cu distance in CuCl-bpy, which further intensifies the luminescence emission. This phenomenon indicates the existence of thermally enhanced charge transfer. Moreover, the origin of the distinction in charge transfer attributed to the different valence states of the copper is investigated through the combined studies of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption near-edge structure, and density functional theory calculations. This research provides a new approach to modulating the luminescence thermal enhancement by NTE.

Chain Length Effect on the Structural and Emission Properties of the CuI/Bis((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)alkane Coordination Polymers

A systematic chain length variation of the ligand para-MeOC₆H₄S(CH₂)_mSC₆H₄OMe (1 ≤ m ≤ 8) was performed to study its effect on the structures and photophysical properties of the coordination polymers (CP) when reacted with CuI. Indeed, direct correlations are noted between these features and m. When m is an odd number, the secondary building unit is systematically the common closed-cubane Cu₄I₄ cluster, rendering the material strongly luminescent (i.e., emission quantum yield, Φ_e > 20%), and the CP is one-dimensional (1D). However, when m is 2, 4, and 6, the SBUs exhibit rare polymeric motifs of (Cu₂I₂)_n: staircase ribbon, fused poly(rhombic pseudo-dodecahedron), and accordion ribbon, respectively, and the emission intensities are either very weak (Φ_e < 0.001%) or of medium intensity (Φ_e ∼ 10% when m = 6). When m = 8 (i.e. the most flexible chain), the SBU is a closed-cubane Cu₄I₄ and the emission intensity is medium (Φ_e ∼ 10%). A special case was observed for m = 3, where a co-crystallization of the molecular cluster Cu₄I₄(NCCH₃)₄ is observed in the lattice, which turns out to be quite important for the stability of the network.

6-Amino-3-(prop-2-en-1-yl)-9H-purin-3-ium Tetracopper(I) Hexabromide: Synthesis and X-ray Structure Determination

6-Amino-3-(prop-2-en-1-yl)-9H-purin-3-ium tetracopper(I) hexabromide [(C5H5N5(C3H5))2Cu4Br6] (1) is synthesized in this paper. The title compound is characterized by Raman spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction: monoclinic, Sp.gr. P21/c, Z = 2, unit cell dimensions: a = 8.6870(3), b = 9.7447(2), c = 16.4418(4) Å, β = 100.681(3)°, V = 1367.72(7) Å3 at 150 K. The peculiarities of the metal coordination and distribution of weak interactions are analyzed. The significant role of hydrogen bonds in the construction of 1 crystal structure is shown.

Copper(I)-Pyrazolate Complexes as Solid-State Phosphors: Deep-Blue Emission through a Remote Steric Effect

We describe a novel manifestation of rigidochromic behavior in a series of tetranuclear Cu(I)-pyrazolate (Cu₄pz₄) macrocycles, with implications for solid-state luminescence at deep-blue wavelengths (<460 nm). The Cu₄pz₄ emissions are remarkably sensitive to structural effects far from the luminescent core: when 3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazoles are used as bridging ligands, adding a C4 substituent can induce a blue shift of more than 100 nm. X-ray crystal and computational analyses reveal that C4 units influence the conformational behavior of adjacent tert-butyl groups, with a subsequent impact on the global conformation of the Cu₄pz₄ complex. Emissions are mediated primarily through a cluster-centered triplet (³CC) state; compression of the Cu₄ cluster into a nearly close-packed geometry prevents the reorganization of its excited-state structure and preserves the ³CC energy at a high level. The remote steric effect may thus offer alternative strategies toward the design of phosphors with rigid excited-state geometries.

Silver-Rich Hybrid Framework Iodide Based on [Ag8I6]2+ Clusters Displays Low-Temperature Dual Emission and Luminescence Thermochromism

Cluster-based framework metal iodides have diverse structures and excellent luminescence properties, and show promising applications in sensing and solid-state lighting. However, the design and synthesis of these materials remain great challenges because excess I^- ions introduced into the synthesis systems decrease the condensation degree of M-I units. In this work, a new strategy is developed to control the condensation behavior of Ag-I units, and a new silver-rich cluster-based framework iodide [DabcoAg₈I₆(SPh)₂]_n (1) (Dabco = 1,4-diazabicyclo [2.2.2] octane) has been synthesized under solvothermal conditions in the presence of silver thiophenolate (AgSPh)_n. Compound 1 features a three-dimensional (3-D) cluster-based framework with a pillared layer structure composed of cationic [Ag₈I₆]²⁺ clusters bridged by SPh^- and Dabco, and displays low-temperature dual emission and luminescence thermochromism.

The Complex Degradation Mechanism of Copper Electrodes on Lead Halide Perovskites

Lead halide perovskite solar cells have reached power conversion efficiencies during the past few years that rival those of crystalline silicon solar cells, and there is a concentrated effort to commercialize them. The use of gold electrodes, the current standard, is prohibitively costly for commercial application. Copper is a promising low-cost electrode material that has shown good stability in perovskite solar cells with selective contacts. Furthermore, it has the potential to be self-passivating through the formation of CuI, a copper salt which is also used as a hole selective material. Based on these opportunities, we investigated the interface reactions between lead halide perovskites and copper in this work. Specifically, copper was deposited on the perovskite surface, and the reactions were followed in detail using synchrotron-based and in-house photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show a rich interfacial chemistry with reactions starting upon deposition and, with the exposure to oxygen and moisture, progress over many weeks, resulting in significant degradation of both the copper and the perovskite. The degradation results not only in the formation of CuI, as expected, but also in the formation of two previously unreported degradation products. The hope is that a deeper understanding of these processes will aid in the design of corrosion-resistant copper-based electrodes.

Synthesis and disassembly of an organometallic polymer comprising redox-active Co4S4 clusters and Janus biscarbene linkers

Here, we show for the first time that main-chain organometallic polymers (MCOPs) can be prepared from Janus N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) linkers and polynuclear cluster nodes. The crosslinked framework Co₄S₄-MCOP is synthesized via ligand displacement reactions and undergoes reversible electron transfer in the solid state. Discrete molecular cluster species can be excised from the framework by digesting the solid in solutions of excess monocarbene. Finally, we demonstrate a synthetic route to monodisperse framework particles via coordination modulation.

Chiral Hybrid Copper(I) Halides for High Efficiency Second Harmonic Generation with a Broadband Transparency Window

Chiral hybrid organic-inorganic metal halides (HOMHs) with intrinsic noncentrosymmetry have shown great promise for applications in second-order nonlinear optics (NLO). However, established chiral HOMHs often suffer from their relatively small band gaps, which lead to negative impacts on transparent window and laser-induced damage thresholds (LDT). Here, we have synthesized two chiral HOMHs based on Cu^I halides, namely (R-/S-MBA)CuBr₂ , which feature well-balanced NLO performances with a highly efficient SHG response, outstanding optical transparency, and high LDT. The effective second-order NLO coefficient of (R-MBA)CuBr₂ has been determined to be ≈24.7 pm V^-1 , which is two orders of magnitude higher than that of their Cu^II counterparts. This work shows the promising potential of Cu^I -based chiral HOMHs for nonlinear photonic applications in wide wavelength regions.

Copper Iodide Clusters Coordinated by Emissive Cyanobiphenyl-Based Ligands

Copper(I) halides are currently the subject of intensive research because of their rich photophysical properties combined with economic and eco-friendly advantages for practical applications. The molecular copper iodide cluster of the general formula [Cu₄I₄L₄] (L = ligand) is a well-known photoluminescent compound, and the possibility to enlarge the panel of its photophysical properties is studied here, by exploring ligands bearing a distinct emitter. The comparative study of five copper iodide clusters coordinated by different phosphine ligands functionalized by the emissive cyanobiphenyl (CBP) group is thus described in this work. The emissive properties of the ligands have a great impact onto the photophysical properties of the cluster. Compared with classical [Cu₄I₄L₄] copper iodide clusters, the origin of the emission bands is largely modified. The CBP moiety of electron acceptor character significantly lowers in energy the vacant orbitals and consequently affects the global energetic layout. These clusters present dual emission based on two different emissive centers which interplay through energy transfer. This study demonstrates that the design of original ligands is an effective approach to enrich the photophysical properties of the appealing family of copper halide complexes.

Coinage Metal Complexes of Bis(quinoline-2-ylmethyl)phenylphosphine-Simple Reactions Can Lead to Unprecedented Results

The different coordination behavior of the flexible yet sterically demanding, hemilabile P,N ligand bis(quinoline‐2‐ylmethyl)phenylphosphine (bqmpp) towards selected Cu^I, Ag^I and Au^I species is described. The resulting X‐ray crystal structures reveal interesting coordination geometries. With [Cu(MeCN)₄]BF₄, compound 1 [Cu₂(bqmpp)₂](BF₄)₂ is obtained, wherein the copper(I) atoms display a distorted square planar and square pyramidal geometry. The steric demand and π‐stacking of the ligand allow for a short Cu⋅⋅⋅Cu distance (2.588(9) Å). Cu^I complex 2 [Cu₄Cl₃(bqmpp)₂]BF₄ contains a rarely observed Cu₄Cl₃ cluster, probably enabled by dichloromethane as the chloride source. In the cluster, even shorter Cu⋅⋅⋅Cu distances (2.447(1) Å) are present. The reaction of Ag[SbF₆] with the ligand leads to a dinuclear compound (3) in solution as confirmed by ³¹P{¹H} NMR spectroscopy. During crystallization, instead of the expected phosphine complex 3, a tris(quinoline‐2‐ylmethyl)bisphenyl‐phosphine (tqmbp) compound [Ag₂(tqmbp)₂](SbF₆)₂4 is formed by elimination of quinaldine. The Au(I) compound [Au₂(bqmpp)₂]PF₆ (5) is prepared as expected and shows a linear arrangement of two phosphine ligands around Au^I.

Dynamic Metal-Ligand Interaction of Synergistic Polymers for Bistable See-Through Electrochromic Devices

Bistable electrochromic materials are a promising alternative solution to reduce energy consumption in displays. Limited by the mechanism and lack of a design strategy, only a few electrochromic materials have truly been able achieve bistability. Herein, a novel strategy is proposed to design bistable electrochromic materials based on polymer-assisted dynamic metal-ligand coordination. The mechanism and materials of such unconventional electrochromic systems are proved by sufficient characterization. Synergistic stabilization of polymerized switchable dyes and the ionic ligand polymer are attracted to each other by supramolecular forces. The color states of the dye molecules are controlled and stabilized by valence changes of the metal ions. Meanwhile, through the polymerization of the electrochromic material and the nearby metal-ligand material, the metal ions of the electroinduced valence change are tightly fixed, and the related diffusion problem of the active EC component is also almost completely suppressed. This strategy successfully enables preparation of the corresponding transparent electrochromic displays with good performances, such as, the display information is clearly visible for more than 1.5 h without consuming energy. Furthermore, the new way of dynamic coordination or dissociation bistable displays could likely prosper the development of the electrochromic area and inspire other fields.

A halogen bonding assembled hybrid copper halide framework as a promising hypotoxicity photodetector

The first halogen bonding assembled three-dimensional hybrid copper iodide was obtained by a facile and sustainable “All-in-One” synthesis strategy and shows great application potential as a hypotoxicity photodetector.

Multiple stimuli triggered structural isomerization of copper iodide–pyridine crystals

Structural isomerization of copper iodide–pyridine crystals under multiple stimuli was monitored, revealing a three-step dissociation–reorganization mechanism.

Unveiling White Light Emission of a One-Dimensional Cu(I)-Based Organometallic Halide toward Single-Phase Light-Emitting Diode Applications

Luminescent organometallic halide crystals, especially with single-component white emission, are urgently needed for light-emitting diode (LED) applications. Barriers for the applications, however, lie in their lead toxicity, poor stability, and low photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). Here, a one-dimensional Cu(I)-based hybrid metal halide (C₁₂H₂₄O₆)CsCu₂Br₃ is designed and prepared via a simple solution method. Upon 365 nm excitation, a broad-band white light emission centered at 535 nm with a full width at half maximum of 186 nm and a PLQY of 78.3% is monitored. The experimental results together with calculation data indicate that the existence of the split peaks at 486 and 570 nm at a low temperature is attributed to the decrease of energy level degeneracy by virtue of the lattice distortion. Moreover, the stability along with the good device performance of the as-fabricated white LED was also discussed. The results demonstrate that (C₁₂H₂₄O₆)CsCu₂Br₃ is highly competitive in lighting application, and it can further enable breakthrough material design for new luminescent organometallic halides.