Relaxation Dynamics of Identical Trigonal Bipyramidal Cobalt Molecules with Different Local Symmetries and Packing Arrangements: Magnetostructural Correlations and ab inito Calculations

Levamisole Based Co(II) Single-Ion Magnet

A new Co(II) complex, [Co(NCS)2(L)2] (1) has been synthesized based on levamisole (L) as a new ligand. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses confirm that the Co(II) ion is having a distorted tetrahedral coordination geometry in the complex. Notably strong intramolecular S⋅⋅⋅S and S⋅⋅⋅N interactions has been confirmed by employing Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM). These intramolecular interactions occur among the sulfur and nitrogen atoms of the levamisole ligands and also the nitrogen atoms of the thiocyanate. Direct current (dc) magnetic analyses reveal presence of zero field splitting (ZFS) and large magnetic anisotropy on Co(II). Detailed ab initio ligand field theory calculations quantitatively predicted the magnitude of ZFS. Prominent field-induced single-ion magnet (SIM) behavior was observed for 1 from dynamic magnetization measurements. Slow magnetic relaxation follows an Orbach mechanism with the effective energy barrier Ueff=29.6 (7) K and relaxation time τo=1.4 (4)×10-9 s.

Field-Induced Slow Magnetic Relaxation in Mononuclear Cobalt(II) Complexes Decorated by Macrocyclic Pentaaza Ligands

Two cobalt(II) complexes [CoL1](OTf)2 (1, L1 = 6,6''-di(anilino)-4'-phenyl-2,2':6',2''-terpyridine) and [CoL2](OTf)2·MeOH (2, L2 = 6,6''-di(N,N-dimethylamino)-4'-phenyl-2,2':6',2''-terpyridine) were synthesized and characterized. Crystal structure analyses showed that the spin carries were coordinated by five N atoms from the neutral pentaaza ligands, forming distorted trigonal bipyramidal coordination environments. Ab initio calculations revealed large easy-axial anisotropy in complexes 1 and 2. Magnetic measurements suggest that complexes 1 and 2 are field-induced single-molecule magnets, whose relaxations are mainly predominated by Raman and direct processes.

Magneto-Structural Correlation of Five-Coordinate Trigonal Bipyramidal High Spin Cobalt(II) Complexes

Here, we combined magnetometry, multi-frequency electronic paramagnetic resonance, and wave function based ab initio calculations to investigate magnetic properties of two high spin Co(II) complexes Co(BDPRP) (BDPRP=2,6-bis((2-(S)-di(4-R)phenylhydroxylmethyl-1-pyrrolidi-nyl)methyl)pyridine, R=H for 8; R=tBu for 9). Complexes 8 and 9 featuring effective D3h symmetry were found to possess D=24.0 and 32.0 cm-1, respectively, in their S=3/2 ground states of1 e ' ' d x z / y z 4 1 e ' d x y / x 2 - y 2 2 1 a 1 ' d z 2 1 ${{\left(1{{\rm e}}^{{\rm { {^\prime}}}{\rm { {^\prime}}}}\right({d}_{xz/yz}\left)\right)}^{4}{\left(1{{\rm e}}^{{\rm { {^\prime}}}}\right({d}_{{xy/{x}^{2}-y}^{2}}\left)\right)}^{2}{\left(1{{\rm a}}_{1}^{{\rm { {^\prime}}}}\right({d}_{{z}^{2}}\left)\right)}^{1}}$ . Ligand field analyses revealed that the low-lying d-d excited states make either positive or vanishing contributions to D. Hence, total positive D values were measured for 8 and 9, as well as related D3h high spin Co(II) complexes. In contrast, negative D values are usually observed for C3v congeners. In-depth analyses suggested that lowering symmetry from D3h to C3v induces orbital mixing between1 e d x z / y z ${1{\rm e}\left({d}_{xz/yz}\right)}$ and2 e d x y / x 2 - y 2 ${2{\rm e}\left({d}_{{xy/{x}^{2}-y}^{2}}\right)}$ and admixes excited state4 A 2 1 e → 2 e ${{}^{4}{{\rm A}}_{2}\left(1e\to 2e\right)}$ into the ground state. Both factors turn the total D value progressively negative with the increasing distance (δ) of the Co(II) center out of the equatorial plane. Therefore, δ determines the sign and magnitude of final D values of five-coordinate trigonal bipyramidal S=3/2 Co(II) complexes as measured for a series of such species with varying δ.

Heptanuclear Mixed-Valence Co4IIICo3II Molecular Wheel─A Molecular Analogue of Layered Double Hydroxides with Single-Molecule Magnet Behavior and Electrocatalytic Activity for Hydrogen Evolution Reactions

We present a bifunctional heptanuclear cobalt(II)/cobalt(III) molecular complex formulated as [Co7(μ3-OH)4(H2L1)2(HL2)2](NO3)6·6H2O (1) (where H5L1 is 2,2'-(((1E,1'E)-((2-hydroxy-5-methyl-1,3-phenylene)bis(methanylylidene))bis(azanylylidene))bis(propane-1,3-diol)) and H2L2 is 2-amino-1,3-propanediol). Compound 1 has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis along with other spectral and magnetic measurements. Structural analysis indicates that 1 contains a mixed-valence Co7 cluster where a central Co(II) ion is connected to six different Co centers (four CoIII and two CoII ions) by four μ3-OH groups, giving rise to a planar heptanuclear cluster that resembles a molecular fragment of a layered double hydroxide (LDH). Two triply deprotonated (H2L1)3- ligands form the outer side of the cluster while two singly deprotonated (HL2)- ligands are located at the top and bottom of the central heptanuclear core. Variable temperature magnetic measurements indicate the presence of weak ferromagnetic CoII···CoII interactions (J = 3.53(6) cm-1) within the linear trinuclear CoII cluster. AC susceptibility measurements show that 1 is a field-induced single-molecule magnet (SMM) with τ0 = 8.2(7) × 10-7 s and Ueff = 11.3(4) K. The electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of 1 in homogeneous phase shows an overpotential of 455 mV, with a Faradaic efficiency of 81% and a TOF of 8.97 × 104 μmol H2 h-1 mol-1.

Field induced single ion magnet behavior in CoII complexes in a distorted square pyramidal geometry

We report three CoII-based complexes with the general formula [CoII(L)(X)2] by changing the halide/pseudo-halide ions [X = NCSe (1SeCN); Cl (2Cl) and Br (3Br)]. The obtained τ5 and CShM values confirm a distorted square pyramidal geometry around the CoII ion in all these complexes. In these three complexes, the central CoII ion is situated above the basal plane of the square pyramidal geometry. The extent of distortion from the ideal SPY-5 geometry differs upon changing the coordinating halide/pseudo-halide ion in these complexes. This essentially results in the alteration of the anisotropic parameter D and hence impacts the magnetic properties in these complexes. This phenomenon has been corroborated with the aid of theoretical investigations. All these complexes display field-induced SIM behaviour with magnetic relaxation occurring through a combination of processes depending on the applied dc magnetic field values and dilution.

Alkyl Chains Modulated Magnetization Dynamics of Mononuclear Trigonal Prismatic CoII Complexes

Four benzeneboron-capped mononuclear CoII complexes with different alkyl substitutions on the fourth position of phenylboronic acid were obtained. The CoII ions are all wrapped by the pocket-like ligands and located in trigonal prismatic coordination geometries. Alternating-current magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal that they show different magnetization dynamics, such as distinct relaxation rates at the same temperature, the faster QTM rates for the ethyl and propyl substituted complexes, as well as different relaxation processes. Magneto-structural correlation study reveals that the various deviations of coordination geometry of CoII ion, diverse crystal packings and possible different vibration modes of substituents caused by modifying alkyl chains are the key factors affecting the magnetization dynamics. This work demonstrates that the alkyl chains even locating far away from the metal center can have a large impact on the magnetic behavior of the CoII complex with a very rigid coordination geometry, offering a new perspective towards transition metal based single-molecule magnets.

Air-stable four-coordinate cobalt(ii) single-ion magnets: experimental and ab initio ligand field analyses of correlations between dihedral angles and magnetic anisotropy

For single-ion magnets (SIMs), understanding the effects of the local coordination environment and ligand field on magnetic anisotropy is key to controlling their magnetic properties. Here we present a series of tetracoordinate cobalt(ii) complexes of the general formula [FL2Co]X2 (where FL is a bidentate diamido ligand) whose electron-withdrawing -C6F5 substituents confer stability under ambient conditions. Depending on the cations X, these complexes adopt structures with greatly varying dihedral twist angle δ between the N-Co-N' chelate planes in the solid state (48.0 to 89.2°). AC and DC field magnetic susceptibility measurements show this to translate into very different magnetic properties, the axial zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameter D ranging from -69 cm-1 to -143 cm-1 with substantial or negligible rhombic component E, respectively. A close to orthogonal arrangement of the two N,N'-chelating σ- and π-donor ligands at the Co(ii) ion is found to raise the energy barrier for magnetic relaxation to above 400 K. Multireference ab initio methods were employed to describe the complexes' electronic structures, and the results were analyzed within the framework of ab initio ligand field theory to probe the nature of the metal-ligand bonding and spin-orbit coupling. A relationship between the energy gaps of the first few electronic transitions and the ZFS was established, and the ZFS was correlated with the dihedral angle δ as well as with the metal-ligand bonding variations, viz. the two angular overlap parameters eσ and eπs. These findings not only give rise to a Co(ii) SIM showing open hysteresis up to 3.5 K at a sweep rate of 30 Oe s-1, but they also provide design guidelines for Co(ii) complexes with favorable SIM signatures or even switchable magnetic relaxation properties.

Investigation by Chemical Substitution within 2p-3d-4f Clusters of the Cobalt(II) Role in the Magnetic Behavior of [vdCoLn]2 (vd = Verdazyl Radical)

1,5-Dimethyl-3-(3'-(hydroxymethyl)-2'-pyridine)-6-oxotetrazane (H₃vdpyCH₂OH) or its oxidized verdazyl form (vdpyCH₂OH) reacted with transition metal and/or lanthanide acetates to yield [(vdpyCH₂O)₂Co₂Ln₂(acO)₈] (Ln = Y(III): I_Co,Y; Gd(III): I_Co,Gd), [(vdpyCH₂O)₂M₃(acO)₄] (M = Zn(II): II_Zn; Co(II): II_Co) and [(vdpyCH₂OH)Zn(acO)₂] (III_Zn) through self-assembly implying a complex-as-ligand intermediate. Single-crystal diffraction reveals that I_MT,Ln are composed of 2p-3d-4f centrosymmetric clusters with verdazyl radicals at the two ends coordinated to the transition-metal ion in a tridentate mode and to the {Ln₂(acO)₄} lanthanide central core in a monodentate mode through its alkoxo moiety. In I_Co,Gd, the transition-metal ions adopt an irregular octahedral environment, and the {Ln₂(acO)₄} core adopts a paddlewheel motif, whereas in I_Co,Y, the transition metal is pentacoordinated, and the central core contains only two acetate bridges. Going from I_Co,Y to II_Co, the central {Y₂(acO)₄} core is replaced by an axially compressed octahedral cobalt(II) center, whereas the outer parts of the molecule remain still. The dc magnetic studies revealed that the alternate π-stacking of the verdazyl radicals in II_Zn led to the formation of alternate antiferromagnetically coupled 1D chains with J_vd-vd = -8.2(1) cm^-1 and J_vd-vd' = -7.6(1) cm^-1 (-2J convention). In I_Co,Y, a complex fitting procedure allowed us to retrieve a complete set of magnetic parameters to take into account both the magnetic anisotropy of the cobalt(II) centers and intra- and inter-molecular exchange effects. For I_Co,Y, it led to g_Co = 2.13(4), D_Co = 100(2) cm^-1, E_Co = 19.9(5) cm^-1, J_Co-vd = +26.5(4) cm^-1, and J_vd-vd = -7.95(4) cm^-1. ac magnetic susceptibility of I_Co,Y, I_Co,Gd and II_Co did not reveal any slow relaxation of the magnetization even when a dc external magnetic field up to 2000 Oe was applied.

The Role of the Bridge in Single-Ion Magnet Behaviour: Reinvestigation of Cobalt(II) Succinate and Fumarate Coordination Polymers with Nicotinamide

Two previously synthesized cobalt(II) coordination polymers; {[Co(μ2-suc)(nia)2(H2O)2]·2H2O}n (suc = succinate(2−), nia = nicotinamide) and [Co(μ2-fum)(nia)2(H2O)2]n (fum = fumarate(2−)) were prepared and thoroughly characterized. Both complexes form 1D coordination chains by bonding of Co(nia)2(H2O)2 units through succinate or fumarate ligands while these chains are further linked through hydrogen bonds to 3D supramolecular networks. The intermolecular interactions of both complexes are quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis and their infrared spectra, electronic spectra and static magnetic properties are confronted with DFT and state-of-the-art ab-initio calculations. Dynamic magnetic measurements show that both complexes exhibit single-ion magnet behaviour induced by a magnetic field. Since they possess very similar chemical structure, differing only in the rigidity of the bridge between the magnetic centres, this chemical feature is put into context with changes in their magnetic relaxation.

Slow magnetic relaxation for cobalt(II) complexes in axial bipyramidal environment: an S = 1/2 spin case

A new family of magnetically mononuclear cobalt(II) complexes with formula [{Ni^II(L)Co^II(H₂O)₂(MeOH)}{Ni^II(L)}₂](ClO₄)₂ where H₂L1 = bis(N,N'-bis(3-methoxysalicylidene)ethylene-1,2-diamine) (1), H₂L2 = bis(N,N'-bis(3-methoxysalicylidene)propane-1,2-diamine) (2) and [{Cu^II(L4)}₂Co^II](ClO₄)₂ (3) where H₂L4 = bis(N,N'-bis(3-ethoxysalicylidene)cyclohexane-1,2-diamine) have been obtained employing non chiral or enantiomerically pure Schiff bases. The structural studies have been carried out by single crystal X-ray and powder diffraction. Dynamic magnetic studies indicate that some members of this family present field induced slow relaxation of the magnetization and its response has been compared with the magnetically diluted [Zn_0.9Co_0.1] complex 1D. Ultra-low frequency Raman spectroscopy has been used to relate the slow relaxation with lattice vibrations.

Slow magnetic relaxation in dinuclear Co(III)-Co(II) complexes containing a five-coordinated Co(II) centre with easy-axis anisotropy

Two air-stable Co(III)-Co(II) mixed-valence complexes of molecular formulas [Co^IICo^III(L)(DMAP)₃(CH₃COO)]·H₂O·CH₃OH (1) and [Co^IICo^III(L)(4-Pyrrol)₃ (CH₃COO)]·0.5CH₂Cl₂ (2) (H₄L = 1,3-bis-(5-methyl pyrazole-3-carboxamide) propane; DMAP = 4-dimethylaminopyridine; and 4-Pyrrol = 4-pyrrolidinopyridine) were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray crystallography, high-field electron paramagnetic resonance (HFEPR) spectroscopy, and magnetic measurements. Both complexes possess one five-coordinated paramagnetic Co(II) ion and one six-coordinated Co(III) ion with octahedral geometry. Direct-current magnetic susceptibility and magnetization measurements show the easy-axis magnetic anisotropy that is also confirmed by low-temperature HFEPR measurements and theoretical calculations. Frequency- and temperature-dependent alternating-current magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal their field-assisted slow magnetic relaxation, which is a characteristic behavior of single-molecule magnets (SMMs), caused by the individual Co(II) ion. The effective energy barrier of complex 1 (49.2 cm^-1) is significantly higher than those of the other dinuclear Co(III)-Co(II) SMMs. This work hence presents the first instance of the dinuclear Co(III)-Co(II) single-molecule magnets with a five-coordinated environment around the Co(II) ion.

Co(II) single-ion magnets: synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties

Magnetoactive coordination compounds exhibiting bi- or multistability between two or more magnetic stable states present an attractive example of molecular switches. Currently, the research is focused on molecular nanomagnets, especially single molecule magnets (SMMs), which are molecules, where the slow relaxation of the magnetization based on the purely molecular origin is observed. Contrary to ferromagnets, the magnetic bistability of SMMs does not require intermolecular interactions, which makes them particularly interesting in terms of application potential, especially in the high-density storage of data. This paper aims to introduce the readers into a basic understanding of SMM behaviour, and furthermore, it provides an overview of the attractive Co(II) SMMs with emphasis on the relation between structural features, magnetic anisotropy, and slow relaxation of magnetization in tetra-, penta-, and hexacoordinate complexes.

Graphical abstract

Spin–vibronic coupling in the quantum dynamics of a Fe(III) trigonal-bipyramidal complex

The presence of a high density of excited electronic states in the immediate vicinity of the optically bright state of a molecule paves the way for numerous photo-relaxation channels. In transition-metal complexes, the presence of heavy atoms results in a stronger spin–orbit coupling, which enables spin forbidden spin-crossover processes to compete with the spin-allowed internal conversion processes. However, no matter how effectively the states cross around the Franck–Condon region, the degree of vibronic coupling, of both relativistic and non-relativistic nature, drives the population distribution among these states. One such case is demonstrated in this work for the intermediate-spin Fe(III) trigonal-bipyramidal complex. A quantum dynamical investigation of the photo-deactivation mechanism in the Fe(III) system is presented using the multi-configurational time-dependent Hartree approach based on the vibronic Hamiltonian whose coupling terms are derived from the state-averaged complete active space self-consistent field/complete active space with second-order perturbation theory (CASPT2) calculations and spin–orbit coupling of the scalar-relativistic CASPT2 states. The results of this study show that the presence of a strong (non-relativistic) vibronic coupling between the optically bright intermediate-spin state and other low-lying states of the same spin-multiplicity overpowers the spin–orbit coupling between the intermediate-spin and high-spin states, thereby lowering the chances of spin-crossover while exhibiting ultrafast relaxation among the intermediate-spin states. In a special case, where the population transfer pathway via the non-relativistic vibronic coupling is blocked, the probability of the spin-crossover is found to increase. This suggests that a careful modification of the complex by incorporation of heavier atoms with stronger relativistic effects can enhance the spin-crossover potential of Fe(III) intermediate-spin complexes.

Slow-Relaxation Behavior of a Mononuclear Co(II) Complex Featuring Long Axial Co-O Bond

Co(II) mononuclear complex with different coordination geometry would display various of field-induced single-ion magnet (SIM) behaviors. Here, we identify a field-induced single-ion magnet in a mononuclear complex Co(H2DPA)2·H2O (H2DPA = 2,6-pyridine-dicarboxylic acid) by the hydrothermal method. The long axial Co-O coordination bond (Co1‧‧‧O3) can be formed by Co1 and O3. Therefore, Co(II) ion is six-coordinated in a distorted elongated octahedron. AC magnetization susceptibilities show that the effective energy barrier is up to 43.28 K. This is much larger than most mononuclear Co(II). The distorted elongated octahedron caused by the axial Co-O coordination bond is responsible for the high effective energy barrier. The distribution of electron density in Co1 and O3 atoms in the long axial bond would influence the magnetic relaxation process in turn. Our work deepens the relationship between the effective energy barrier and the weak change of ligand field by long axial bonds, which would facilitate constructing SIM with high energy temperature.

Pentacoordinate Cobalt(II) Single Ion Magnets with Pendant Alkyl Chains: Shall We Go for Chloride or Bromide?

Four pentacoordinate complexes 1-4 of the type [Co(L1)X2] and [Co(L2)X2] (where L1=2,6-bis(1-octyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine for 1 and 2, L2=2,6-bis(1-dodecyl-1H-benzimidazol -2-yl)-pyridine for 3 and 4; X = Cl- for 1 and 3, X...

Large easy-axis magnetic anisotropy in a series of trigonal prismatic mononuclear cobalt (II) complexes with zero-field hidden single-molecule magnet behaviour: The important role of the distortion of the coordination sphere and intermolecular interactions on the slow relaxation

The complexes [Co(L)]X·S (X = CoCl42- , S = CH3CN (1); X = ZnCl42- , S = CH3OH (2)), [Co(L)]X2·S (X = ClO4-, S = 2CH3OH (3) and X =...

Iron(II), Cobalt(II), and Nickel(II) Complexes of Bis(sulfonamido)benzenes: Redox Properties, Large Zero-Field Splittings, and Single-Ion Magnets

Metal complexes of 1,2-diamidobenzenes have been long studied because of their intriguing redox properties and electronic structures. We present here a series of such complexes with 1,2-bis(sulfonamido)benzene ligands to probe the utility of these ligands for generating a large zero-field splitting (ZFS, D) in metal complexes that possibly act as single-ion magnets. To this end, we have synthesized a series of homoleptic ate complexes of the form (X)_n[M{bis(sulfonamido)benzene}₂] (n equals 4 minus the oxidation state of the metal), where M (Fe/Co/Ni), X [K⁺/(K-18-c-6)⁺/(HNEt₃)⁺, with 18-c-6 = 18-crown ether 6], and the substituents (methyl and tolyl) on the ligand [bmsab = 1,2-bis(methanesulfonamido)benzene; btsab = 1,2-bis(toluenesulfonamido)benzene] were varied to analyze their effect on the ZFS, possible single-ion-magnet properties, and redox behavior of these metal complexes. A combination of X-ray crystallography, (spectro)electrochemistry, superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry, high-frequency electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy was used to investigate the electronic/geometric structures of these complexes and the aforementioned properties. These investigations show that the cobalt(II) complexes display very high negative D values in the range of -100 to -130 cm^-1, and the nickel(II) complexes display very high positive D values of 76 and 58 cm^-1. In addition, the cobalt(II) complexes shows barriers of 200-260 cm^-1 and slow relaxation of the magnetization in the absence of an external magnetic field, underscoring the robustness of this class of complexes. The iron(II) complex exhibits a D value of -3.29 cm^-1 and can be chemically oxidized to an iron(III) complex that has D = -1.96 cm^-1. These findings clearly show that bis(sulfonamido)benzenes are ideally suited to stabilize ate complexes, to generate very high ZFSs at the metal centers with single-ion-magnet properties, and to induce exclusive oxidation at the metal center (for iron) despite the presence of ligands that are potentially noninnocent. Our results therefore substantially enhance the scope for this class of redox-active ligands.

Anisotropic exchange interaction and field-induced SMM behaviour in a mixed valence {CoCo} complex

We are reporting the synthesis and structural characterization of a new hexanuclear Co(ii)/Co(iii) complex starting from a versatile pivalate cobalt precursor and the racemic mixture of a chelating Schiff base type ligand. The main [CoII4CoIII2(μ3-OH)2(μ-OR)2(μ-OR')2(μ-OR'')2]6+ core is unprecedented and exhibits an inversion center that affords only two unique Co(ii) sites. We performed DC and AC magnetic measurements and analysed them in terms of the anisotropic exchange of ground Kramers doublets at each Co(ii) site due to their unquenched angular orbital contribution to the magnetic moment. Quantum computations support the experimental data treatment. The interplay of dominant antiferromagnetic exchange, inversion symmetry and a non-collinear main quantization axis affords an exchange energy spectrum with mostly non-magnetic states. Nevertheless, field induced SMM behaviour is observed at 1500 Oe and below 3 K which might be explained by the relaxation of the first excited magnetic state (which is populated enough) through the next closest excited state. The Orbach and/or Raman mechanism could be operative from the experimental and quantum computed results.

Magnetization relaxation dynamics of a rare coordinatively unsaturated Co(II) complex: experimental and theoretical insights

A robust and unusual three coordinate Co(ii) complex [Li(DME)3][Co(L)3] (1, where L = Lithium (2,6-diisopropylphenyl) amide and DME = Dimethoxyethane) shows easy plane magnetic anisotropy (D) which is validated by variable temperature X-band EPR studies. 1 also registered with the largest anisotropic barrier (51.1 K, τ0 = 1.98 × 10-8 s; Hdc ≠ 0) to the magnetization reversal among the three coordinate Co(ii) complexes. The role of its geometry on the SH parameters and the experimental observations are rationalized by theoretical calculations including the origin of magnetic anisotropy.

Magnetic anisotropy in square pyramidal cobalt(II) complexes supported by a tetraazo macrocyclic ligand

Two five-coordinate mononuclear Co(ii) complexes [Co(12-TMC)X][B(C6H5)4] (L = 1,4,7,10-tetramethyl-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (12-TMC), X = Cl- (1), Br- (2)) have been studied by X-ray single crystallography, magnetic measurements, high-frequency and -field EPR (HF-EPR) spectroscopy and theoretical calculations. Both complexes have a distorted square pyramidal geometry with the Co(ii) ion lying above the basal plane constrained by the rigid tetradentate macrocyclic ligand. In contrast to the reported five-coordinate Co(ii) complex [Co(12-TMC)(NCO)][B(C6H5)4] (3) exhibiting easy-axis anisotropy, an easy-plane magnetic anisotropy was found for 1 and 2via the analyses of the direct-current magnetic data and HF-EPR spectroscopy. Frequency- and temperature-dependent alternating-current magnetic susceptibility measurements demonstrated that complexes 1 and 2 show slow magnetic relaxation at an applied dc field. Ab initio calculations were performed to reveal the impact of the terminal ligands on the nature of the magnetic anisotropies of this series of five-coordinate Co(ii) complexes.

Slow Magnetic Relaxation in a One-Dimensional Coordination Polymer Constructed from Hepta-Coordinate Cobalt(II) Nodes

A one-dimensional coordination polymer was synthesized employing hepta-coordinate CoII as nodes and dicyanamide as linkers. Detailed direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal the presence of field-induced slow magnetic relaxation behavior of the magnetically isolated seven-coordinate CoII center with an easy-plane magnetic anisotropy. Detailed ab initio calculations were performed to understand the magnetic relaxation processes. To our knowledge, the reported complex represents the first example of slow magnetic relaxation in a one-dimensional coordination polymer constructed from hepta-coordinate CoII nodes and dicyanamide linkers.

Co(II)-Based single-ion magnets with 1,1'-ferrocenediyl-bis(diphenylphosphine) metalloligands

Herein, we report on investigations of magnetic and spectroscopic properties of three heterobimetallic Fe(ii)-Co(ii) coordination compounds based on the tetracoordinate {CoP2X2} core encapsulated by dppf metalloligand, where X = Cl (1), Br (2), I (3), dppf = 1,1'-ferrocenediyl -bis(diphenylphosphine). The analysis of static magnetic data has revealed the presence of axial magnetic anisotropy in compounds (1) and (2) and this was further confirmed by high-frequency electron spin resonance (HF-ESR) spectroscopy. Dynamic magnetic data confirmed that (1) and (2) behave as field-induced Single-Ion Magnets (SIMs). Together with bulk studies, we have also tested the possibility of depositing (2) as thick films on Au(111), glass, and polymeric acetate by drop-casting as well as thermal sublimation, a key aspect for the development of future devices embedding these magnetic objects.

Tuning Magnetic Anisotropy in a Class of Co(II) Bis(hexafluoroacetylacetonate) Complexes

Tuning the magnetic anisotropy of metal ions remains highly interesting in the design of improved single-molecule magnets (SMMs). We herein report synthetic, structural, magnetic, and computational studies of four mononuclear Co^II complexes, namely [Co(hfac)₂ (MeCN)₂ ] (1), [Co(hfac)₂ (Spy)₂ ] (2), [Co(hfac)₂ (MBIm)₂ ] (3), and [Co(hfac)₂ (DMF)₂ ] (4) (MeCN=acetonitrile, hfac=hexafluoroacetylacetone, Spy=4-styrylpyridine, MbIm=5,6-dimethylbenzimidazole, DMF=N,N-dimethylformamide), with distorted octahedral geometry constructed from hexafluoroacetylacetone (hfac) and various axial ligands. By a building block approach, complexes 2-4 were synthesized by recrystallization of the starting material of 1 from various ligands containing solution. Magnetic and theoretical studies reveal that 1-4 possess large positive D values and relative small E parameters, indicating easy-plane magnetic anisotropy with significant rhombic anisotropy in 1-4. Dynamic alternative current (ac) magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that these complexes exhibit slow magnetic relaxation under external fields, suggesting field-induced single-ion magnets (SIMs) of 1-4. These results provide a promising platform to achieve fine tuning of magnetic anisotropy through varying the axial ligands based on Co(II) bis(hexafluoroacetylacetonate) complexes.

Optimal diamagnetic dilution concentration for suppressing the dipole-dipole interaction in single-ion magnets

The effect of screening the Co^II moment of monomeric [Co^IIL₂(H₂O)] (L = 8-hydroxyquinaldine), having a trigonal bipyramid coordination, by diamagnetic Zn in Co_xZn_1-x solid solutions on its magnetic relaxation was explored using ac-susceptibility, high-field electron-spin-resonance measurements and CASPT2 calculations. The retention of the crystal structure for all the solid solutions was demonstrated using single crystal diffraction. The dc-magnetization and theoretical fittings of the susceptibility for Co₁ and Co_0.1Zn_0.9 gave a large zero-field-splitting (ZFS) D of 50 ± 6 cm^-1, and very weak dipole interaction between the nearest neighbors, while EPR and calculations confirmed the positive sign of the axial component (D). Consistent parameters were obtained from experiments and theory. Importantly, only field-induced relaxation was observed for the samples with less than 50% Co and a gradual change in the barrier energy to moment reversal and relaxation times was observed between 11% and 20% Co, while both were enhanced for higher dilutions. The results establish a clear barrier for extending the longevity of the magnetism for this type of single-ion species by lowering the intramolecular interactions. The results suggest that the magnetic interaction persists up to the second sphere, that is, for a dilution of 1 in 9 (11% Co). Importantly, this method is applicable to all single-ion magnet systems, that is, the optimum dilution concentration to restrain the dipole field can be given only by the single crystal structure.

Magnetic Relaxation Studies on Trigonal Bipyramidal Cobalt(II) Complexes

We report the preparation and the full characterization of a novel mononuclear trigonal bipyramidal Co^II complex [Co(NS₃ ^iPr )Br](BPh₄ ) (1) with the tetradentate sulfur-containing ligand NS₃ ^iPr (N(CH₂ CH₂ SCH(CH₃ )₂ )₃ ). The comparison of its magnetic behaviour with those of two previously reported compounds [Co(NS₃ ^iPr )Cl](BPh₄ ) (2) and [Co(NS₃ ^tBu )Br](ClO₄ ) (3) (NS₃ ^tBu =N(CH₂ CH₂ SC(CH₃ )₃ )₃ ) with similar structures shows that 1 displays a single-molecule magnet behaviour with the longest magnetic relaxation time (0.051 s) at T=1.8 K, which is almost thirty times larger than that of 3 (0.0019 s) and more than three times larger than that of 2 (0.015 s), though its effective energy barrier (26 cm^-1 ) is smaller. Compound 1, which contains two crystallographically independent molecules, presents smaller rhombic parameters (E=1.45 and 0.59 cm^-1 ) than 2 (E=2.05 and 1.02 cm^-1 ) and 3 (E=2.00 and 0.80 cm^-1 ) obtained from theoretical calculations. Compounds 2 and 3 have almost the same axial (D) and rhombic (E) parameter values, but present a large difference of their effective energy barrier and magnetic relaxation which may be attributed to the larger volume of BPh₄ ^- than ClO₄ ^- leading to larger diamagnetic dilution (weaker magnetic dipolar interaction) for 2 than for 3. The combination of these factors leads to a much slower magnetic relaxation for 1 than for the two other compounds.

Stereochemistry of coordination polyhedra vs. single ion magnetism in penta- and hexacoordinated Co(ii) complexes with tridentate rigid ligands

A tridentate ligand L (2,6-bis(1-(3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl)-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine) was synthesized and used for the preparation of three pentacoordinated Co(ii) complexes of formula [Co(L)X₂] (where X = NCS^- for 1, X = Cl^- for 2 and X = Br^- for 3) and one ionic compound 4 ([Co(L)₂]Br₂·2CH₃OH·H₂O) containing a hexacoordinated Co(ii) centre. Static magnetic data were analysed with respect to the spin (1-3) or the Griffith-Figgis (4) Hamiltonian. Ab initio calculations enable us to identify the positive axial magnetic anisotropy parameter D accompanied by a significant degree of rhombicity in the reported complexes. Also, magneto-structural correlation was outlined for this class of compounds. Moreover, all four compounds exhibit slow relaxation of magnetisation at an applied static magnetic field with either both low- and high-frequency relaxation channels (3) or a single high-frequency relaxation process (1, 2 and 4). The interplay between the stereochemistry of coordination polyhedra, magnetic anisotropy and the relaxation processes was investigated and discussed in detail.

Slow magnetic relaxation in penta-coordinate cobalt(ii) field-induced single-ion magnets (SIMs) with easy-axis magnetic anisotropy

Two penta-coordinate [Co(Lⁿ)(NCS)]ClO₄ with substituted pyridyl based bispyrazolyl ligands have been structurally characterized. The complexes show an easy-axis magnetic anisotropy, large rhombicity and slow relaxation of magnetization.

Quinoxaline radical-bridged transition metal complexes with very strong antiferromagnetic coupling

Synthesis, magnetic studies and, theoretical calculations of a new family of transition metal complexes bridged by a quinoxaline-based radical.

Two Four-Coordinate and Seven-Coordinate CoII Complexes Based on the Bidentate Ligand 1, 8-Naphthyridine Showing Slow Magnetic Relaxation Behavior

For a long time, the cobalt(II) complex ([Co(napy)₄ ](ClO₄ )₂ ) (napy=1, 8-naphthyridine) has been considered as an eight-coordinate complex without any structural proof. After careful considerations, two complexes [Co(napy)₂ Cl₂ ] (1) and [Co(napy)₄ ](ClO₄ )₂ (2) based on the bidentate ligand napy were synthesized and structurally characterized. X-ray single-crystal structural determination showed that the cobalt(II) center in [Co(napy)₂ Cl₂ ] (1) is four-coordinate with a tetrahedral geometry (T_d ), while [Co(napy)₄ ](ClO₄ )₂ (2) is seven-coordinate rather than eight-coordinate with a capped trigonal prism geometry (C_2v ). Direct-current (dc) magnetic data revealed that complexes 1 and 2 possess positive zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameters of 11.08 and 25.30 cm^-1 , respectively, with easy-plane magnetic anisotropy. Alternating current(ac) susceptibility measurements revealed that both complexes showed slow magnetic relaxation behaviour. Theoretical calculations demonstrated that the presence of easy-plane magnetic anisotropy (D>0) for complexes 1 and 2 is in agreement with the experimental data. Furthermore, these results pave the way to obtain four-coordinate and seven-coordinate cobalt(II) single-ion magnets (SIMs) by using a bidentate ligand.

Field-Induced Single-Ion Magnetic Behavior in Two Mononuclear Cobalt(II) Complexes

The employment of a new rigid N-tridentate ligand, bis(1-chloroimidazo[1,5-a]pyridin-3-yl)pyridine (bcpp), in the construction of cobalt(II) single-ion magnets is reported. Two cobalt(II) complexes, [Co(bcpp)Cl₂ ] (1) and [Co(bcpp)Br₂ ] (2), have been prepared and characterized. Single-crystal XRD analyses reveal that complexes 1 and 2 are isostructural. They are pentacoordinated mononuclear cobalt(II) compounds with expected trigonal bipyramidal geometry. Both analysis of the magnetic data and ab initio calculations reveal easy-plane magnetic anisotropy (D>0) for 1 and 2. Detailed alternating current magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal the occurrence of slow magnetic relaxation behavior for the cobalt(II) centers of 1 and 2; thus indicating that both complexes are field-induced single-ion magnets.

Magnetic anisotropy and slow magnetic relaxation processes of cobalt(ii)-pseudohalide complexes

Three mononuclear six-coordinate Co(ii)-pseudohalide complexes [Co(L)X2] with two N-donor pseudohalido coligands occupying the cis-positions (X = NCS- (1), NCSe- (2) or N(CN)2- (3)), and a five-coordinate complex [Co(L)(NCO)][B(C6H5)4] (4) [L = 1,4,7,10-tetramethyl-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (12-TMC)] have been prepared and structurally characterized. Easy-plane magnetic anisotropy for 1-3 and easy-axis anisotropy for 4 were revealed via the analyses of the direct-current magnetic data, high-frequency and -field EPR (HFEPR) spectra and ab initio theoretical calculations. They display slow magnetic relaxations under an external applied dc field. Typically, two slow relaxation processes were found in 1 and 2 while only one relaxation process occurs in 3 and 4. The Raman-like mechanism is found to be dominant in the studied temperature range in 1. For 2-4, the Raman process is dominant in the low temperature region, while the Orbach mechanism dominates in the high temperature range.

In-depth investigation of large axial magnetic anisotropy in monometallic 3d complexes using frequency domain magnetic resonance and ab initio methods: a study of trigonal bipyramidal Co(ii)

The magnetic properties of 3d monometallic complexes can be tuned through geometric control, owing to their synthetic accessibility and relative structural simplicity. Monodentate ligands offer great potential for fine-tuning the coordination environment to engineer both the axial and rhombic zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameters. In [CoCl3(DABCO)(HDABCO)] (1), the trigonal bipyramidal Co(ii) centre has two bulky axial ligands and three equatorial chloride ligands. An in-depth experimental and theoretical study of 1 reveals a large easy-plane magnetic anisotropy (+ve D) with a negligible rhombic zero-field splitting (E) due to the strict axial symmetry imposed by the C 3 symmetric ligand and trigonal space group. The large easy-plane magnetic anisotropy (D = +44.5 cm-1) is directly deduced using high-field EPR and frequency-domain magnetic resonance (FDMR) studies. Ab initio calculations reveal a large positive contribution to the D term arising from ground state/excited state mixing of the 4E'' states at ∼4085 cm-1 and a minor contribution from the spin-flip transition as well. The nature of the slow relaxation in 1 is elucidated through analysis of the rates of relaxation of magnetisation, taking into account Raman and direct spin-lattice relaxation processes and Quantum Tunnelling of the Magnetisation (QTM). The terms relating to the direct process and QTM were found based on the fit of the field-dependence of τ at 2 K. Subsequently, these were used as fixed parameters in the fit of the temperature-dependence of τ to obtain the Raman terms. This experimental-theoretical investigation provides further insight into the power of FDMR and ab initio methods for the thorough investigation of magnetic anisotropy. Thus, these results contribute to design criteria for high magnetic anisotropy systems.

Anionic guest-dependent slow magnetic relaxation in Co(ii) tripodal iminopyridine complexes

We report the syntheses and magnetic property characterizations of four mononuclear cobalt(ii) complex salts featuring a tripodal iminopyridine ligand with external anion receptor groups, [CoL5-ONHtBu]X2 (X = Cl (1), Br (2), I (3) and ClO4 (4)). While all four salts exhibit anion binding through pendant amide moieties, only in the case of 1 is field-induced slow relaxation of magnetisation observed, whereas in the other salts this phenomenon is absent at the limits of our instrumentation. The effect of chloride inducing a seventh Co-N interaction and concomitant structural distortion is hypothesized as the origin of the observed dynamic magnetic properties observed in 1. Ab initio computational studies carried out on a 7-coordinate Co(ii) model species survey the complex interplay of coordination number and trigonal twisting on the sign and magnitude of the axial anisotropy parameter (D), and identify structural features whose distortions can trigger large switches in the sign and magnitude of magnetic anisotropy.

Synthesis and magnetic studies of pentagonal bipyramidal metal complexes of Fe, Co and Ni

Three mononuclear metal complexes [MII(L-N3O2)(MeCN)2][BPh4]2 (M = Fe, 1; Co, 2; Ni, 3) were isolated and structurally characterized. Magnetic studies revealed uniaxial magnetic anisotropy for 1 (D = -17.1 cm-1) and 3 (D = -14.3 cm-1) and easy-plane magnetic anisotropy for 2 (D = +36.9 cm-1). Slow magnetic relaxation was observed for complexes 1 and 2 under an applied magnetic field, both of which are dominated by a Raman process.

Field Induced Single Ion Magnetic Behaviour in Square-Pyramidal Cobalt(II) Complexes with Easy-Plane Magnetic Anisotropy

Two penta-coordinate CoII complexes with formulae [Co(14-TMC)Cl](BF4) (1, 14-TMC = 1,4,8,11-Tetramethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) and [Co(12-TBC)Cl](ClO4)·(MeCN) (2, 12-TBC = 1,4,7,10-Tetrabenzyl-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane) were synthesized and characterized. Structural analysis revealed that ligand coordinates to the CoII centre in a tetradentate fashion and the fifth position is occupied by chloride ion and the geometries around CoII centres are best described as distorted square pyramidal. Detailed magnetic measurements disclose the presence of significant easy-plane magnetic anisotropy and field induced slow magnetic relaxation behaviours of the studied complexes. More insight into the magnetic anisotropy has been given using ab initio theory calculations, which agree well with the experimental values and further confirmed the easy-plane magnetic anisotropy.

Microwave-assisted synthesis: from a mononuclear {CoII} complex to {CoII9} solvomorphs

Microwave-assisted control over nuclearity and solvomorphism.

Syntheses, structures, and magnetic properties of three two-dimensional cobalt(ii) single-ion magnets with a CoIIN4X2 octahedral geometry

Three two-dimensional Co^II SIMs with (4,4) layer structures have been synthesized and characterized structurally and magnetically.

Effects of coordination sphere on unusually large zero field splitting and slow magnetic relaxation in trigonally symmetric molecules

Geometric control in mononuclear complexes has come to the forefront in the field of molecular magnets due to its profound effects on relaxation pathways and blocking temperature in single molecule magnets (SMMs). Herein we report the synthesis and magnetic characterization of six trigonally symmetric, divalent Fe, Co, and Ni molecules, with the rigid geometry enforced via the use of the tris-anionic, tetradentate ligand MST (N,N',N''-[2,2',2''-nitrilotris-(ethane-2,1-diyl)]tris(2,4,6-trimethylbenzenesulfonamide)). A systematic study on the effect of converting between trigonal monopyramidal complexes, (Me4N)[M(MST)], and trigonal bipyramidal complexes, (Me4N)[M(MST)(OH2)] was conducted experimentally and computationally. It was found that (Me4N)[Ni(MST)] exhibits a very large, near record zero-field splitting parameter (D) value of -434 cm-1, owing to an extremely low lying first excited state. The trigonal monopyramidal cobalt and iron complexes exhibit slow magnetic relaxation under applied fields, resulting in barriers of 45 K and 63.9 K respectively. Coordination of a single water molecule in the open axial site of the trigonal monopyramidal complexes exerts drastic dampening effects on the D value as well as slow relaxation. Computations reveal that coordination of water rotates the D zz axis away from the C 3 axis of symmetry resulting in a smaller D value. The aquo species (Me4N)[Co(MST)(OH2)] also exhibits magnetic relaxation under an applied field, but the barrier is reduced to 9.9 K. Water coordination totally quenches the magnetic behavior in the iron complex, and reduces the D value for nickel to -185 cm-1. These results showcase the drastic effect that a small change in the coordination environment can have on magnetic behavior, as well as that trigonal monopyramidal geometry can lead to near record D values.

Slow magnetization dynamics in Co(ii)/Co(iii) triethanolamine/pivalate complexes

We report the synthesis, structural characterization and a combined computational and experimental study of the magnetic properties of two pivalate cobalt complexes, a mononuclear Co(ii) one and a tetranuclear Co(ii)₃Co(iii) mixed valence polynuclear one. The latter shows SMM behaviour revealed under an applied DC field with a thermal barrier of ca. 30 cm^-1 competing with direct and Raman relaxation processes. The Orbach thermal barrier can be understood from the doublets energy ladder arising from the anisotropic exchange interaction among ground S_eff = 1/2 of each Co(ii) sites. The strong local zero-field splitting of the S = 3/2 Co(ii) states affords these well isolated ground Kramers doublets. DC and AC magnetic susceptibility measurements as well as HF-EPR spectra support this interpretation. CASSCF quantum chemical computations have been also performed in order to aid the overall comprehension of the magnetic behaviour in the reported complexes.

Single-ion magnetic anisotropy in a vacant octahedral Co(ii) complex

The first example of a pentacoordinate CoII single-ion magnet based on a P-donor ligand with vacant octahedral coordination geometry is reported here. Thorough magnetic measurements reveal the presence of field induced slow relaxation behavior with an easy-plane magnetic anisotropy. The combined theoretical and experimental studies disclose that direct and quantum tunneling processes become dominant at low temperature to relax the magnetization; however, from the thermal dependence of relaxation time it can be observed that the optical or acoustic Raman processes become important to the overall relaxation process.