Structural Consequences of 1,4-Cyclohexanedicarboxylate Cis/Trans Isomerism in Uranyl Ion Complexes: From Molecular Species to 2D and 3D Entangled Nets

A Spectroscopic and Computational Evaluation of Uranyl Oxo Engagement with Transition Metal Cations

We report the synthesis and characterization of five novel Cd2+/UO22+ heterometallic complexes that feature Cd-oxo distances ranging from 78 to 171% of the sum of the van der Waals radii for these atoms. This work marks an extension of our previously reported Pb2+/UO22+ and Ag+/UO22+ complexes, yet with much more pronounced structural and spectroscopic effects resulting from Cd-oxo interactions. We observe a major shift in the U═O symmetric stretch and significant uranyl bond length asymmetry. The ρbcp values calculated using Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) support the asymmetry displayed in the structural data and indicate a decrease in covalent character in U═O bonds with close Cd-oxo contacts, more so than in related compounds containing Pb2+ and Ag+. Second-order perturbation theory (SOPT) analysis reveals that O spx → Cd s is the most significant orbital overlap and U═O bonding and antibonding orbitals also contribute to the interaction (U═O σ/π → Cd d and Cd s → U═O σ/π*). The overall stabilization energies for these interactions were lower than those in previously reported Pb2+ cations, yet larger than related Ag+ compounds. Analysis of the equatorial coordination sphere of the Cd2+/UO22+ compounds (along with Pb2+/UO22+ complexes) reveals that 7-coordinate uranium favors closer, stronger Mn+-oxo contacts. These results indicate that U═O bond strength tuning is possible with judicious choice of metal cations for oxo interactions and equatorial ligand coordination.

Nanotubule inclusion in the channels formed by a six-fold interpenetrated, triperiodic framework

When reacted together with uranyl ions under solvo-hydrothermal conditions, a bis(pyridiniumcarboxylate) zwitterion (L) and tricarballylic acid (H3tca) give the complex [NH4]2[UO2(L)2][UO2(tca)]4·2H2O (1). The two ligands are segregated into different units, an anionic nanotubule for tca3- and a six-fold interpenetrated cationic framework with lvt topology for L. The entangled framework defines large channels which contain the square-profile nanotubules. Complex 1 has a photoluminescence quantum yield of 19% and its emission spectrum shows the superposition of the signals due to the two independent species.

Woven, Polycatenated, or Cage Structures: Effect of Modulation of Ligand Curvature in Heteroleptic Uranyl Ion Complexes

Combining the flexible zwitterionic dicarboxylate 4,4'-bis(2-carboxylatoethyl)-4,4'-bipyridinium (L) and the anionic dicarboxylate ligands isophthalate (ipht^2-) and 1,2-, 1,3-, or 1,4-phenylenediacetate (1,2-, 1,3-, and 1,4-pda^2-), of varying shape and curvature, has allowed isolation of five uranyl ion complexes by synthesis under solvo-hydrothermal conditions. [(UO₂)₂(L)(ipht)₂] (1) and [(UO₂)₂(L)(1,2-pda)₂]·2H₂O (2) have the same stoichiometry, and both crystallize as monoperiodic coordination polymers containing two uranyl-(anionic carboxylate) strands united by L linkers into a wide ribbon, all ligands being in the divergent conformation. Complex 3, [(UO₂)₂(L)(1,3-pda)₂]·0.5CH₃CN, with the same stoichiometry but ligands in a convergent conformation, is a discrete, binuclear species which is the first example of a heteroleptic uranyl carboxylate coordination cage. With all ligands in a divergent conformation, [(UO₂)₂(L)(1,4-pda)(1,4-pdaH)₂] (4) crystallizes as a sinuous and thread-like monoperiodic polymer; two families of chains run along different directions and are woven into diperiodic layers. Modification of the synthetic conditions leads to [(UO₂)₄(LH)₂(1,4-pda)₅]·H₂O·2CH₃CN (5), a monoperiodic polymer based on tetranuclear (UO₂)₄(1,4-pda)₄ rings; intrachain hydrogen bonding of the terminal LH⁺ ligands results in diperiodic network formation through parallel polycatenation involving the tetranuclear rings and the LH⁺ rods. Complexes 1-3 and 5 are emissive, with complex 2 having the highest photoluminescence quantum yield (19%), and their spectra show the maxima positions usual for tris-κ²O,O'-chelated uranyl cations.

Simultaneous Control of Flexibility and Rigidity in Pore-Space-Partitioned Metal-Organic Frameworks

Flexi-MOFs are typically limited to low-connected (<9) frameworks. Here we report a platform-wide approach capable of creating a family of high-connected materials (collectively called CPM-220) that integrate exceptional framework flexibility with high rigidity. We show that the multi-module nature of the pore-space-partitioned pacs (partitioned acs net) platform allows us to introduce flexibility as well as to simultaneously impose high rigidity in a tunable module-specific fashion. The inter-modular synergy has remarkable macro-morphological and sub-nanometer structural impacts. A prominent manifestation at both length scales is the retention of X-ray-quality single crystallinity despite huge hexagonal c-axial contraction (≈ 30%) and harsh sample treatment such as degassing and sorption cycles. CPM-220 sets multiple precedents and benchmarks on the pacs platform in both structural and sorption properties. They possess exceptionally high benzene/cyclohexane selectivity, unusual C₃H₆ and C₃H₈ isotherms, and promising separation performance for small gas molecules such as C₂H₂/CO₂.

Flexible Aliphatic Diammonioacetates as Zwitterionic Ligands in UO22+ Complexes: Diverse Topologies and Interpenetrated Structures

N,N,N',N'-Tetramethylethane-1,2-diammonioacetate (L1) and N,N,N',N'-tetramethylpropane-1,3-diammonioacetate (L2) are two flexible zwitterionic dicarboxylates which have been used as ligands for the uranyl ion, 12 complexes having been obtained from their coupling to diverse anions, mostly anionic polycarboxylates, or oxo, hydroxo and chlorido donors. The protonated zwitterion is a simple counterion in [H₂L1][UO₂(2,6-pydc)₂] (1), where 2,6-pydc^2- is 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylate, but it is deprotonated and coordinated in all the other complexes. [(UO₂)₂(L2)(2,4-pydcH)₄] (2), where 2,4-pydc^2- is 2,4-pyridinedicarboxylate, is a discrete, binuclear complex due to the terminal nature of the partially deprotonated anionic ligands. [(UO₂)₂(L1)(ipht)₂]·4H₂O (3) and [(UO₂)₂(L1)(pda)₂] (4), where ipht^2- and pda^2- are isophthalate and 1,4-phenylenediacetate, are monoperiodic coordination polymers in which central L1 bridges connect two lateral strands. Oxalate anions (ox^2-) generated in situ give [(UO₂)₂(L1)(ox)₂] (5) a diperiodic network with the hcb topology. [(UO₂)₂(L2)(ipht)₂]·H₂O (6) differs from 3 in being a diperiodic network with the V₂O₅ topological type. [(UO₂)₂(L1)(2,5-pydc)₂]·4H₂O (7), where 2,5-pydc^2- is 2,5-pyridinedicarboxylate, is a hcb network with a square-wave profile, while [(UO₂)₂(L1)(dnhpa)₂] (8), where dnhpa^2- is 3,5-dinitro-2-hydroxyphenoxyacetate, formed in situ from 1,2-phenylenedioxydiacetic acid, has the same topology but a strongly corrugated shape leading to interdigitation of layers. (2R,3R,4S,5S)-Tetrahydrofurantetracarboxylic acid (thftcH₄) is only partially deprotonated in [(UO₂)₃(L1)(thftcH)₂(H₂O)] (9), which crystallizes as a diperiodic polymer with the fes topology. [(UO₂)₂Cl₂(L1)₃][(UO₂Cl₃)₂(L1)] (10) is an ionic compound in which discrete, binuclear anions cross the cells of the cationic hcb network. 2,5-Thiophenediacetate (tdc^2-) is peculiar in promoting self-sorting of the ligands in the ionic complex [(UO₂)₅(L1)₇(tdc)(H₂O)][(UO₂)₂(tdc)₃]₄·CH₃CN·12H₂O (11), which is the first example of heterointerpenetration in uranyl chemistry, involving a triperiodic, cationic framework and diperiodic, anionic hcb networks. Finally, [(UO₂)₇(O)₃(OH)_4.3Cl_2.7(L2)₂]Cl·7H₂O (12) crystallizes as a 2-fold interpenetrated, triperiodic framework in which chlorouranate undulating monoperiodic subunits are bridged by the L2 ligands. Complexes 1, 2, 3, and 7 are emissive with photoluminescence quantum yields in the range of 8-24%, and their solid-state emission spectra show the usual dependence on number and nature of donor atoms.

Zwitterionic and Anionic Polycarboxylates as Coligands in Uranyl Ion Complexes, and Their Influence on Periodicity and Topology

The three zwitterionic di- and tricarboxylate ligands 1,1'-[(2,3,5,6-tetramethylbenzene-1,4-diyl)bis(methylene)]bis(pyridin-1-ium-4-carboxylate) (pL1), 1,1'-[(2,3,5,6-tetramethylbenzene-1,4-diyl)bis(methylene)]bis(pyridin-1-ium-3-carboxylate) (mL1), and 1,1',1″-[(2,4,6-trimethylbenzene-1,3,5-triyl)tris(methylene)]tris(pyridin-1-ium-4-carboxylate) (L2) have been used as ligands to synthesize a series of 15 uranyl ion complexes involving various anionic coligands, in most cases polycarboxylates. [(UO₂)₂(pL1)₂(cbtc)(H₂O)₂]·10H₂O (1, cbtc^4- = cis,trans,cis-1,2,3,4-cyclobutanetetracarboxylate) is a discrete, dinuclear ring-shaped complex with a central cbtc^4- pillar. While [UO₂(pL1)(NO₃)₂] (2), [UO₂(pL1)(OAc)₂] (3), and [UO₂(pL1)(HCOO)₂] (4) are simple chains, [(UO₂)₂(mL1)(1,3-pda)₂] (5, 1,3-pda^2- = 1,3-phenylenediacetate) is a daisy chain and [UO₂(pL1)(pdda)]₃·10H₂O (6, pdda^2- = 1,2-phenylenedioxydiacetate) is a double-stranded, ribbon-like chain. Both [UO₂(pL1)(pht)]·5H₂O (7, pht^2- = phthalate) and [(UO₂)₃(mL1)(pht)₂(OH)₂] (8) crystallize as diperiodic networks with the sql topology, the latter involving hydroxo-bridged trinuclear nodes. [(UO₂)₂(pL1)(c/t-1,3-chdc)₂] (9, c/t-1,3-chdc^2- = cis/trans-1,3-cyclohexanedicarboxylate) and [UO₂(pL1)(t-1,4-chdc)]·1.5H₂O (10, t-1,4-chdc^2- = trans-1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate) are also diperiodic, with the V₂O₅ and sql topologies, respectively. Both [(UO₂)₂(mL1)(c/t-1,4-chdc)₂] (11) and [(UO₂)₂(pL1)(1,2-pda)₂] (12, 1,2-pda^2- = 1,2-phenylenediacetate) crystallize as diperiodic networks with hcb topology, and they display threefold parallel interpenetration. [HL2][(UO₂)₃(L2)(adc)₃]Br (13, adc^2- = 1,3-adamantanedicarboxylate) contains a very corrugated hcb network with two different kinds of cells, and the uncoordinated HL2⁺ molecule associates with the coordinated L2 to form a capsule containing the bromide anion. [(UO₂)₂(pL1)(kpim)₂] (14, kpim^2- = 4-ketopimelate) is a three-periodic framework with pL1 molecules pillaring fes diperiodic subunits, whereas [(UO₂)₂(L2)₂(t-1,4-chdc)](NO₃)_1.7Br_0.3·6H₂O (15), the only cationic complex in the series, is a triperiodic framework with dmc topology and t-1,4-chdc^2- anions pillaring fes diperiodic subunits. Solid-state emission spectra and photoluminescence quantum yields are reported for all complexes.

Luminescent Uranium-Thiophene Dicarboxylate Frameworks Supported by Transition-Metal-Organic Cations: Dimensionality and Luminescence Control in Uranyl Speciation

The study about the resourcfulization of uranium such as the usage as new materials can promote the harmless treatments of nuclear waste. In this work, with the direction of transition-metal...

Varied role of organic carboxylate dizwitterions and anionic donors in mixed-ligand uranyl ion coordination polymers

Two organic dizwitterions were combined with various anionic donors to generate a series of five uranyl ion complexes crystallizing as mono- or diperiodic coordination polymers, with separation into two distinct networks in one case.

Plumbing the uncertainties of solvothermal synthesis involving uranyl ion carboxylate complexes

Uranyl ion complexes with long-chain, saturated or unsaturated aliphatic dicarboxylate ligands illustrate how solvo-hydrothermal synthetic conditions sometimes result in the formation of species different from those hoped for.

Pb-Oxo Interactions in Uranyl Hybrid Materials: A Combined Experimental and Computational Analysis of Bonding and Spectroscopic Properties

Reported are the syntheses and characterization of six new heterometallic UO₂²⁺/Pb²⁺ compounds. These materials feature rare instances of M-oxo interactions, which influence the bonding properties of the uranyl cation. The spectroscopic effects of these interactions were measured using luminescence and Raman spectroscopy. Computational density functional theory-based natural bonding orbital and quantum theory of atoms in molecules methods indicate interactions arise predominantly through charge transfer between cationic units via the electron-donating uranyl O sp^x lone pair orbitals and electron-accepting Pb²⁺ p orbitals. The interaction strength varies as a function of Pb-oxo interaction distance and angle with energy values ranging from 0.47 kcal/mol in the longer contacts to 21.94 kcal/mol in the shorter contacts. Uranyl units with stronger interactions at the oxo display an asymmetric bond weakening and a loss of covalent character in the U═O bonds interacting closely with the Pb²⁺ ion. Luminescence quenching is observed in cases in which strong Pb-oxo interactions are present and is accompanied by red-shifting of the uranyl symmetric Raman stretch. Changes to inner sphere uranyl bonding manifest as a weakening of the U═O bond as a result of interaction with the Pb²⁺ ion. Comprehensive evaluation of the effects of metal ions on uranyl spectra supports modeling efforts probing uranyl bonding and may inform applications such as forensic signatures.

A chiral uranyl-Kemp's tricarboxylate cubic framework: structure-directing effect of counterions with three-fold rotational symmetry

In the presence of PPh₃Me⁺ cations, Kemp's tricarboxylate (kta^3-) complexes the uranyl cation to give [PPh₃Me][UO₂(kta)] (1), a triperiodic framework with cubic symmetry and srs topology. The PPh₃Me⁺ cation is held by weak interactions into cavities with matching three-fold rotational symmetry. Comparison with the diperiodic hemi-hydrate polymorph previously reported points to the disrupting role of OHO hydrogen bonds in the latter.

2,5-Thiophenedicarboxylate: An Interpenetration-Inducing Ligand in Uranyl Chemistry

Seven uranyl ion complexes have been crystallized under solvo-hydrothermal conditions from 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid (tdcH₂) and diverse additional, structure-directing species. [UO₂(tdc)(DMF)] (1) is a two-stranded monoperiodic coordination polymer, while [PPh₃Me][UO₂(tdc)(HCOO)] (2) is a simple chain with terminal formate coligands. Although it is also monoperiodic, [C(NH₂)₃][H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₃(tdc)₄(HCOO)] (3) displays an alternation of tetra- and hexanuclear rings. Two-stranded subunits are bridged by oxo-coordinated Ni^II cations to form a diperiodic network in [UO₂(tdc)₂Ni(cyclam)] (4), but a homometallic sql diperiodic assembly is built in [Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)(H₂O)][UO₂(tdc)₂]·H₂O (5), to which the counterion is hydrogen bonded only. Diperiodic networks with the hcb topology are formed in both [Zn(phen)₃][(UO₂)₂(tdc)₃]·2H₂O·3CH₃CN (6) and [PPh₄]₂[(UO₂)₂(tdc)₃]·2H₂O (7). The slightly undulating layers in 6 are crossed by oblique columns of weakly interacting counterions in polythreading-like fashion. In contrast, the larger curvature in 7 allows for three-fold, parallel 2D interpenetration to occur. These results are compared with previously reported cases of interpenetration and polycatenation in the uranyl-tdc^2- system.

Uranyl ion complexes with 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine-4′-carboxylate. Interpenetration of networks involving “expanded ligands”

2,2′:6′,2′′-Terpyridine-4′-carboxylate (tpyc−) forms both homo- and heterometallic uranyl ion complexes including a chiral, twofold interpenetrated polymer involving the “expanded ligand” Ni(tpyc)2.

Variability of Uranyl Carboxylates from Rigid Terophenyldicarboxylic Acid Ligands

Three uranyl carboxylates, namely, (UO₂)(L¹)(H₂O)_0.5 (1), [(UO₂)(L²)(H₂O)]·2H₂O (2), and [(UO₂)(L²)(H₂O)]·(CH₃CN) (3), were synthesized hydrothermally from 2',3',5',6'-tetramethyl-(1,1':4',1″-terphenyl)-4,4″-dicarboxylic acid (H₂L¹) and 2',5'-dimethyl-(1,1':4',1″-terphenyl)-3,3″-dicarboxylic acid (H₂L²), which are all steric carboxylic acid ligands but vary with the carboxylic acid group position and methyl group number. It is found that compound 1 displays a three-dimensional 8-fold-interpenetrated net with channels running along the c direction. Compounds 2 and 3 are isostructural, and all display two-dimensional-layered crystal structures but contain different guest molecules. The photophysical measurements reveal that compounds 1 and 2, which contain disordered water molecules, are luminescence-quenched, whereas compound 3 containing acetonitrile molecules is luminescent.

Expanding uranyl dicyanoaurate coordination polymers into the second and third dimensions

The solvothermal synthesis and characterization of a three-dimensional, interpenetrated uranyl dicyanoaurate coordination polymer, K2(UO2)2(UO2)2(Au(CN)2)2(O)2(NO3)4, from UO2(NO3)2·6H2O and KAu(CN)2 is described. The structure contains a three-dimensional (3D) lattice of planar tetranuclear uranyl–oxo–nitrate clusters connected by dicyanoaurate linkers, with the rotation of the clusters providing the increased dimensionality. The material undergoes a reversible single-crystal to single-crystal transformation on exposure to water vapour, which is taken up in the channels of the 3D system. A second uranyl dicyanoaurate coordination polymer of the form [UO2(DMSO)3(H2O)(Au(CN)2)][Au(CN)2] was structurally characterized as a linear chain of dicyanoaurate units connected by gold–gold bonds with pendant uranyl–water–DMSO adducts that are hydrogen bonded into a two-dimensional sheet. Both materials exhibit emission arising from both the uranyl moiety and the gold(I) centre and represent the first multidimensional uranyl–dicyanoaurate coordination polymers.

Uranyl Tricarballylate Triperiodic and Nanotubular Species. Counterion Control of Nanotube Diameter

Tricarballylic acid (propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, H₃ tca) was reacted with uranyl nitrate hexahydrate under solvo-hydrothermal conditions and in the presence of different additional cations, yielding four complexes which have been crystallographically characterized. [(UO₂)₂Ba(tca)₂(H₂O)₄] (1), isomorphous to the Pb^II analogue previously reported, crystallizes as a triperiodic framework in which diperiodic uranyl-tca^3- subunits with the hcb (honeycomb) topology are linked by carboxylate-bound Ba^II cations. Triperiodic polymerization is also found in [(UO₂)₂(tca)₂Ni(cyclam)] (2) and [(UO₂)₂(tca)₂Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)] (3), but here the diperiodic uranyl-tca^3- subunits have the sql (square lattice) topology, and the frameworks formed through bridging by Ni^II or Cu^II cations have different topologies, tcs in 2 and xww in 3. [Co(en)₃][UO₂(tca)]₃·2H₂O (4) crystallizes as a monoperiodic coordination polymer with the hcb topology and a nanotubular geometry. In contrast to the square-section nanotubules previously found in [NH₄][(UO₂)₂Pb(tca)₂(NO₃)(bipy)] (bipy = 2,2'-bipyridine), those in 4 have a hexagonal section with a width of ∼7 Å. The structure-directing role of the hydrogen bonded counterions in these nanotubular species, either NH₄⁺ located within the nanotubule cavity or [Co(en)₃]³⁺ located outside, is discussed. Emission spectra in the solid state display the usual vibronic fine structure for 1 and 4, while uranyl emission is quenched in 3.

Functionalized Aromatic Dicarboxylate Ligands in Uranyl-Organic Assemblies: The Cases of Carboxycinnamate and 1,2-/1,3-Phenylenedioxydiacetate

2-Carboxycinnamic acid (ccnH₂) and the isomeric 1,2- and 1,3-phenylenedioxydiacetic acids (1,2- and 1,3-pddaH₂) have been used to synthesize eight uranyl ion complexes under solvo-hydrothermal conditions. In the four complexes [PPh₄]₂[UO₂(ccn)(NO₃)]₂ (1), [PPh₄]₂[UO₂(ccn)(dibf)]₂ (2), [UO₂(ccn)(bipy)]₂ (3), and [Ni(R,S-Me₆cyclam)][UO₂(ccn)(HCOO)]₂ (4), the ccn^2- dianion retains a nearly planar geometry, which favors the formation of the centrosymmetric [UO₂(ccn)]₂ dimeric unit. Additional terminal ligands, either neutral (bipy = 2,2'-bipyridine) or anionic (nitrate, dibf^- = 1,3-dihydro-3-oxo-1-isobenzofuranacetate, and formate, the two latter formed in situ), complete the uranyl coordination sphere, leading in all cases to discrete, dinuclear species. Sodium(I) bonding to the carboxylate/ether O₄ site of the 1,2-pdda^2- dianion in the two complexes [UO₂Na(1,2-pdda)(OH)] (5) and [(UO₂)₂Na₂(1,2-pdda)₂(C₂O₄)] (6) results in this ligand being planar. Further lateral coordination to uranyl and sodium bonding to a uranyl oxo group allow formation of heterometallic diperiodic networks containing monoperiodic uranyl-only subunits. In the absence of Na⁺ cations, 1,2-pdda^2- adopts a conformation in which one carboxylate group is tilted out of the ligand plane in [UO₂(1,2-pdda)₂Ni(cyclam)] (7) and diaxial carboxylato bonding to nickel(II) unites uranyl-only monoperiodic subunits into a diperiodic network. The 1,3-pdda^2- ligand in [UO₂(1,3-pdda)(H₂O)] (8) is also nonplanar with one tilted carboxylate group, and the bridging bidentate nature of both carboxylate groups allows formation of a triperiodic framework in which both metal and ligand are four-coordinated nodes. While the emission spectra of complexes 1 and 5 display the vibronic progression considered typical of uranyl ion, those of complexes 2, 4, and 8 show broad emission bands which in the case of complex 4 completely replace the uranyl emission and which appear to be ligand-centered. The low energy of these broad bands can be rationalized in terms of the close association of certain ligand pairs within the structures.

Structure-Directing Effects of Coordinating Solvents, Ammonium and Phosphonium Counterions in Uranyl Ion Complexes with 1,2-, 1,3-, and 1,4-Phenylenediacetates

The three isomers 1,2-, 1,3-, and 1,4-phenylenediacetic acids (1,2-, 1,3-, and 1,4-pdaH₂) have been used to synthesize 16 uranyl ion complexes under solvo-hydrothermal conditions and in the presence of various coligands and organic counterions. The two neutral and homoleptic complexes [UO₂(1,2-pda)]·CH₃CN (1) and [UO₂(1,3-pda)] (2) crystallize as diperiodic assemblies with slightly different coordination modes of the ligands, but the same sql topology. Introduction of the coordinating solvents N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) or N,N'-dimethylpropyleneurea (DMPU) in the uranyl coordination sphere produces the four complexes [UO₂(1,2-pda)(DMPU)] (3), [UO₂(1,3-pda)(NMP)] (4), [UO₂(1,4-pda)(NMP)] (5), and [UO₂(1,4-pda)(DMPU)] (6), which are either monoperiodic (4) or diperiodic species with the fes (3 and 5) or 3,4L13 (6) topology. The presence of dimethylammonium cations is associated with the formation of ladder-like monoperiodic polymers with the 1,2 isomer in the complexes [H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,2-pda)₃]·H₂O (7) and [H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,2-pda)₃]·3H₂O (8), while a conformational change giving the 1,3 and 1,4 isomers a pincer-like geometry favors the formation of dinuclear ring subunits assembled into daisy-chain-like monoperiodic polymers in [H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,3-pda)₃]·0.5H₂O (9), [H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,4-pda)₃] (10), and the mixed-ligand species [H₂NMe₂]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,2-pda)(1,4-pda)₂] (11). The unique complex including guanidinium cations, [C(NH₂)₃]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,2-pda)₃]·0.5H₂O·CH₃CN (12), crystallizes as a diperiodic polymer with the hcb topology. Due to differences in ligand conformations, the phosphonium-containing complexes [PPh₃Me]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,3-pda)₃] (13) and [PPh₄]₂[(UO₂)₂(1,4-pda)₃] (14) contain ladder-like and daisy-chain-like monoperiodic polymers, respectively, while only the latter geometry is found in the mixed-cation complexes [PPh₃Me][H₂NMe₂][(UO₂)₂(1,4-pda)₃]·H₂O (15) and [PPh₃Me][H₂NMe₂][(UO₂)₂(1,2-pda)(1,4-pda)₂] (16). The influence of ligand conformation and the structure-directing effects of coligands and counterions throughout the series are discussed. The uranyl emission spectra of 14 of the complexes display the usual vibronic fine structure, the peak positions being dependent on the number of equatorial donors.

Zero-, mono- and diperiodic uranyl ion complexes with the diphenate dianion: influences of transition metal ion coordination and differential UVI chelation

Diphenate complexes with uranyl cations are generally of low periodicity (0 or 1), but for one 2-periodic uranyl–Cu^II species.

The sulfonate group as a ligand: a fine balance between hydrogen bonding and metal ion coordination in uranyl ion complexes

Nine uranyl ion complexes have been synthesized using two kinds of sulfonate-containing ligands, i.e. 2-, 3- and 4-sulfobenzoic acids (2-, 3- and 4-SBH₂), which include additional carboxylic donors, and p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene (H₈C4S), with additional phenolic groups, and [Ni(cyclam)]²⁺, [Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)]²⁺ or PPh₄⁺ as counterions. [Ni(cyclam)][UO₂(4-SB)₂(H₂O)₂]·2CH₃CN (1) and [Ni(cyclam)][UO₂(3-SB)₂(H₂O)₂] (2) are molecular species in which only the carboxylate groups are coordinated to uranyl, the sulfonate groups being essentially hydrogen bond acceptors. In contrast, uranyl κ¹-O(S);κ¹-O(C)-chelation is found in the four complexes involving 2-SB^2-, different bridging interactions producing diverse geometries. [UO₂(2-SB)₂Ni(cyclam)]·H₂O (3) crystallizes as a two-dimensional (2D) assembly with fes topology, in which uranyl ion dimeric subunits are bridged by six-coordinate Ni^II cations. Complexes [UO₂(2-SB)₂Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)]₂·2H₂O (4) and [(UO₂)₂(2-SB)₂(C₂O₄)Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)] (5), obtained together from the same solution, are a molecular tetranuclear complex and a 2D species with fes topology, respectively, depending on the coordination number, 5 or 6, of the Cu^II cation. The complex [PPh₄]₂[(UO₂)₂(2-SB)₃(H₂O)]·H₂O (6) is a one-dimensional (1D), ribbon-like coordination polymer with a layered packing of alternate cationic and anionic sheets. No heterometallic complex was obtained with H₈C4S, but the copper-only compound [{Cu(R,S-Me₆cyclam)}₅(H₃C4S)₂]·17H₂O (7) displays mixed coordination/hydrogen bonding association of the copper azamacrocycle complex with the phenolic groups. The complexes [PPh₄]₅[UO₂(H₄C4S)(H₂O)₄][UO₂(H₃C4S)(H₂O)₄]·14H₂O (8) and [PPh₄]₃[UO₂(H₃C4S)(H₂O)₃]·9H₂O (9) were crystallized from the same solution and are a molecular complex and a 1D polymer, respectively, with monodentate sulfonate coordination to uranyl, while [PPh₄]₂[UO₂(H₄C4S)(H₂O)₃]·11H₂O (10) is also a 1D polymer. The anionic complexes in the last three complexes form layers (9) or double layers (8 and 10) separated from one another by hydrophobic layers of PPh₄⁺ cations. The balance between coordination and hydrogen bonding interactions with the macrocyclic ligands provides an indication of the energy of the sulfonate coordinate bond. Complex 6 is the only luminescent species in this series, albeit with a low quantum yield of 3%, and its emission spectrum is typical of a uranyl complex with five equatorial donors.

Syntheses, structures, and magnetic properties of mixed-ligand complexes based on 3,6-bis(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridazine

Six new metal-organic coordination polymers (CPs) [Ni(L)(2,5-TDC)(H2O)] n (1), [Ni(L)(1,3-BDC)(H2O)] n (2), [Ni(L)(1,4-BDC)(H2O)] n (3), [Mn(L)(2,5-TDC)(H2O)] n (4), [Mn(L)(2,6-PYDC)(H2O)] n (5) and [Mn(L)(1,4-NDC)] n (6) were achieved by reactions of the corresponding metal salt with mixed organic ligands (L = 3,6-bis(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridazine, 2,5-H2TDC = thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylic acid, 1,3-H2BDC = isophthalic acid, 1,4-H2BDC = terephthalic acid, 2,6-H2PYDC = pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid, 1,4-H2NDC = naphthalene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid) under solvothermal condition. CPs 1-6 were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR, TG, XRD and elemental analyses. Their structures range from the intricate 3D CPs 1, 3, 4 and 6 to the 2D coordination polymer 2 and the infinite 1D chain 5. The CPs 1-4 and 6 underlying networks were classified from the topological viewpoint, disclosing the distinct sql (in 1), pcu (in 3 and 6), new topology (in 2), and dia (in 4) topological nets. Moreover, analysis of thermal stability shows that they had good thermal stability. Finally, magnetic properties of CPs 1-6 have been studied, the results showed that complex 2 had ferromagnetic coupling and complexes 1, 3-6 were antiferromagnetic.

Tubelike Uranyl-Phenylenediacetate Assemblies from Screening of Ligand Isomers and Structure-Directing Counterions

Reaction of 1,2-, 1,3-, or 1,4-phenylenediacetic acids (1,2-, 1,3-, or 1,4-H₂PDA) with uranyl ions under solvo-hydrothermal conditions and in the presence of [M(L) _n] ^q+ cations, in which M = transition metal cation, L = 2,2'-bipyridine (bipy) or 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), n = 2 or 3, and q = 1 or 2, gave 10 complexes which have been crystallographically characterized. The diacetate ligands are bis-chelating and the uranyl cations are tris-chelated in all cases. [UO₂(1,2-PDA)₂Zn(phen)₂]·2H₂O (1) and [UO₂(1,4-PDA)₂Mn(bipy)₂]·H₂O (2) are heterometallic, neutral one-dimensional (1D) coordination polymers in which the carboxylate-coordinated 3d block metal cation is either decorating only (1) or participates in polymer building (2). [Zn(phen)₃][(UO₂)₂(1,3-PDA)₃] (3) and [Ni(phen)₃][(UO₂)₂(1,4-PDA)₃]·H₂O (4), with separate counterions, crystallize as anionic two-dimensional (2D) networks, as does [Cu(bipy)₂][H₂NMe₂][(UO₂)₂(1,4-PDA)₃] (5), which displays parallel 2D interpenetration. The complex [Zn(phen)₃][(UO₂)₂(1,2-PDA)₃]·7H₂O (6) crystallizes as a ladderlike, slightly inflated ribbon. The same topology is found in [Zn(bipy)₃][(UO₂)₂(1,3-PDA)₃] (7), but the larger separation between coordination sites and the coexistence of curved and divergent ligand conformations produce a tubelike assembly. An analogous but more regular and spacious tubular geometry is found in [M(bipy)₃][(UO₂)₂(1,4-PDA)₃], with M = Co (8) or Ni (9), and {Λ-[Ru(bipy)₃]}[(UO₂)₂(1,4-PDA)₃] (10). The disordered counterions in 8 and 9 are replaced by well-ordered, enantiomerically pure chiral counterions in 10. The tubular assemblies formed in 7-10 are characterized by an oblong section and the presence of gaps in the walls, which enable the inclusion of two rows of counterions in the cavity.

A Lead Carboxylate-Azolate Metal-Organic Framework Based on Hexanuclear Clusters: Luminescence and Accelerating the Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate

A lead carboxylate-azolate framework, [Pb₃ (μ₄ -O)(L)₂ (H₂ O)] ⋅ 2H₂ O (1), has been constructed from the reaction of 2-methyl-4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) benzoic acid (H₂ L) and Pb(NO₃ )₂ under solvothermal conditions. Compound 1 contains an unprecedented hexanuclear cluster [Pb₆ (μ₄ -O)₂ (COO)₄ (CN₄ )₂ ], which as an 8-connected node is connected by 3-connected L linkers to give rise to a three-dimensional framework with an uncommon (3,8)-connected tfz-d; UO₃ topology. Framework 1 possesses strong solid-state yellow luminescence (563 nm), which stems from ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT), however, the removal of water molecules in 1 lead to the significant luminescent decrease of the sample. Importantly, in the presence of 1, the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate is significantly accelerated.

Chiral Discrete and Polymeric Uranyl Ion Complexes with (1 R,3 S)-(+)-Camphorate Ligands: Counterion-Dependent Formation of a Hexanuclear Cage

Reaction of (1 R,3 S)-(+)-camphoric acid (H₂cam) with uranyl ions under solvo-hydrothermal conditions and in the presence of bulky countercations gave five chiral complexes of varying dimensionality. [Cu( R,S-Me₆cyclam)][UO₂(Hcam)₂(HCOO)₂] (1) and [Ni( R,S-Me₆cyclam)][UO₂(cam)(HCOO)₂] (2), in which the formate coligand is formed in situ, involve very similar countercations, but 1 is a discrete, mononuclear complex, whereas 2 crystallizes as a one-dimensional (1D) coordination polymer, and NH-bond donation by the macrocyclic ligand of the countercation complexes is present in both. [Co(en)₃][(UO₂)₄(cam)( R,R-tart)₂(OH)]·3H₂O (3), in which en is ethylenediamine and H₄ R,R-tart is R,R-tartaric acid, contains three enantiomerically pure chiral species, and it displays a two-dimensional (2D) arrangement, with the countercation again involved in NH-bond donation. While [PPh₄][UO₂(cam)(NO₃)] (4) is a 1D polymer, [PPh₃Me]₃[NH₄]₃[(UO₂)₆(cam)₉] (5) is a discrete, homochiral, and homoleptic hexanuclear cage with C₃ point symmetry and a trigonal prismatic arrangement of the uranium atoms. This cage differs from the octanuclear, pseudocubic uranyl camphorate species previously described, thus providing an example of modulation of the cage size through variation of the structure-directing counterions. The cage in 5 is closely associated with three PPh₃Me⁺ cations, two of them outside and with their methyl group directed toward the prism basis center, and one inside the cage cavity. While complex 5 is nonluminescent, complexes 1 and 4 have emission spectra in the solid state typical of equatorially hexacoordinated uranyl complexes. Solid-state photoluminescence quantum yields of 2 and 23% have been measured for complexes 1 and 4, respectively.

Structure-Directing Effects of Counterions in Uranyl Ion Complexes with Long-Chain Aliphatic α,ω-Dicarboxylates: 1D to Polycatenated 3D Species

Nine uranyl ion complexes were synthesized under (solvo-)hydrothermal conditions using α,ω-dicarboxylic acids HOOC-(CH₂) _n-2-COOH (H₂C n, n = 6-9) and diverse counterions. Complexes [PPh₄][UO₂(C6)(NO₃)] (1) and [PPh₄][UO₂(C8)(NO₃)] (2) contain zigzag one-dimensional (1D) chains, with further polymerization being prevented by the terminal nitrate ligands. [PPh₃Me][UO₂(C7)(HC7)] (3) crystallizes as a 1D polymer with a curved section, with hydrogen bonding of the uncomplexed carboxylic groups giving rise to formation of 3-fold interpenetrated two-dimensional (2D) networks. [PPh₄][H₂NMe₂][(UO₂)₂(C7)₃] (4) and [PPh₃Me]₂[(UO₂)₂(C8)₃] (5) contain 1D chains, either ladder-like or containing doubly bridged dimers, while [PPh₃Me]₂[(UO₂)₂(C9)₃]·2H₂O (6) displays interdigitated, strongly corrugated honeycomb 2D nets. Ladder-like 1D polymers in [Cu( R,S-Me₆cyclam)][(UO₂)₂(C7)₂(C₂O₄)]·4H₂O (7) are associated into layers by the hydrogen bonded counterions, whereas the [Ni(cyclam)]²⁺ moieties are part of the 2D polymeric arrangement in [(UO₂)₂(C7)₂(HC7)₂Ni(cyclam)]·2H₂O (8) because of axial coordination of the nickel(II) center, with hydrogen bonding mediated by water molecules generating a three-dimensional (3D) net. [(UO₂)₂K₂(C7)₃(H₂O)]·0.5H₂O (9) contains convoluted uranyl dicarboxylate 2D subunits, which generate a 3D framework through 2D → 3D parallel polycatenation similar to that previously found in [NH₄]₂[(UO₂)₂(C7)₃]·2H₂O; further linking of these subunits is provided by bonding of the potassium cations to carboxylate and uranyl oxido groups. The solid-state emission spectra of complexes 1-6 and 9 display maxima positions typical of hexacoordinated uranyl carboxylate complexes, but uranyl luminescence is quenched in 7. A solid-state photoluminescence quantum yield of 11.5% has been measured for complex 1, while those for compounds 3-6 and 9 are in the range of 2.0-3.5%.

Closed Uranyl-Dicarboxylate Oligomers: A Tetranuclear Metallatricycle with Uranyl Bridgeheads and 1,3-Adamantanediacetate Linkers

In the presence of NH₄⁺ and either PPh₄⁺ or PPh₃Me⁺ cations, 1,3-adamantanediacetic acid (H₂ADA) reacts with uranyl ions under solvo-hydrothermal conditions to give the complexes [NH₄]₂[PPh₄]₂[(UO₂)₄(ADA)₆] (1) and [NH₄]₂[PPh₃Me]₂[(UO₂)₄(ADA)₆] (2), both of which contain a tetranuclear metallatricycle built from two 2:2 rings including convergent ligands, linked by two additional ligands in an extended conformation defining a third, larger ring. While the ammonium cations are closely associated with the 2:2 rings through triple hydrogen bonding, the large PPh₄⁺ or PPh₃Me⁺ cations are more loosely bound to each of the two faces of the larger ring. In contrast, the complex [H₂NMe₂][PPh₃Me][(UO₂)₂(ADA)₃]·H₂O (3), in which dimethylammonium replaces ammonium cations, crystallizes as a two-dimensional network with honeycomb {6³} topology, albeit with very distorted, elongated hexagonal cells. These and previous results show that both NH₄⁺ and PPh₄⁺ or PPh₃Me⁺ cations are essential to the formation of the metallatricycle. The role of the flexibility imparted to ADA^2- by the acetate arms, in comparison to the more rigid 1,3-adamantanedicarboxylate (ADC^2-), is also discussed. All three complexes are luminescent, with quantum yields of 0.06, 0.06, and 0.09 for 1-3, respectively. The vibronic fine structure apparent on the emission spectra gives peak positions typical of species in which the uranyl ion is chelated by three carboxylate groups.

Bimetallic Uranyl Organic Frameworks Supported by Transition-Metal-Ion-Based Metalloligand Motifs: Synthesis, Structure Diversity, and Luminescence Properties

A bifunctional ligand, 2,2'-bipyridine-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid (H₂bpdc), has been used in the investigation of constructing bimetallic uranyl organic frameworks (UOFs). Seven novel uranyl-transition metal bimetallic coordination polymers, [(UO₂)Zn(bpdc)₂] _n (1), [Cd(UO₂)(bpdc)₂(H₂O)₂·2H₂O] _n (2), [Cu(UO₂)(bpdc)(SO₄)(H₂O)₃·2H₂O] _n (3), [CuCl(UO₂)(bpdc)(Hbpdc)(H₂O)₂·H₂O] _n (4), [Cu(UO₂)(bpdc)₂(H₂O)] _n (5), [Co₂(UO₂)₃(bpdc)₆] _n (6), and [Co₃(UO₂)₄(bpdc)₈(Hbpdc)(H₂O)₂] _n (7), have been successfully constructed through the assembly of various transition-metal salts, uranyl ions, and H₂bpdc ligands under hydrothermal conditions. UOFs 1, 5, 6, and 7 adopt three-dimensional (3D) frameworks with different architectures; UOFs 2 and 3 exhibit two-dimensional (2D) wavelike and stairlike layers, respectively, while UOF 4 is a one-dimensional (1D) chain assembly. These UOFs include a wide range of dimensionalities (1D-3D), interpenetrated frameworks, and cation-cation interaction species, suggesting that anion-dependent structure regulation based on the metalloligand [M(bpdc) _m] ^n- motifs, the coordination modes of the metal centers and bpdc^2- ligands, along with the reaction temperature, has a remarkable influence on the formation of bimetallic UOFs, which could be a representative system for the structural modulation of UOFs with various dimensionalities and structures. Furthermore, the thermal stability and luminescent properties of compounds 1, 3, and 6 are also investigated.