Atoms-in-Molecules Dual Parameter Analysis of Weak to Strong Interactions: Behaviors of Electronic Energy Densities versus Laplacian of Electron Densities at Bond Critical Points

Recent Trends in Group 11 Hydrogen Bonding

Conventional hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) has been extensively studied in organic and biological systems. However, its role in transition metal chemistry, particularly with Group 11 metals (i. e. Cu, Ag, Au) as hydrogen bond acceptors, remains relatively unexplored. Through a combination of experimental techniques, such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and computational calculations, several aspects of H-bonding interactions with Group 11 metals are examined, shedding light on its impact on structural motifs and reactivity. These include bond strengths, geometries, and effects on electronic structures. Understanding the intricacies of hydrogen bonding within transition metal chemistry holds promise for various applications, including catalytic transformations, the construction of molecular assemblies, synthesis of complexes displaying anticancer activities, or luminescence applications (e. g. Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence, TADF). This review encompasses the most significant recent advances, challenges, and future prospects in this emerging field.

A Simple Manganese(I) Catalyst for the Efficient and Selective Hydrophosphination of Olefins with PH3, Primary, and Secondary Phosphanes

A tridentate ligand L with a P,NH,N donor motif was synthesized in few steps from commercially available precursors. Upon reaction with [MnBr(CO)5], an octahedral 18-electron complex [Mn(CO)3(L)]Br (1) is obtained in which L adopts a facial arrangement. After deprotonation of the NH group in the cationic complex unit, a neutral Mn(I) amido complex [Mn(CO)2(L-H)] (2) is formed under loss of CO. Rearrangement of L-H leads to a trigonal bipyramidal structure in which the P and N donor centers are in trans position. Further deprotonation of 2 results in a dep-blue anionic complex fragment [Mn(CO)2(L-2H)]- (3). DFT calculations and a QTAIM analysis show that the amido complex 2 contains a Mn-N bond with partial double bond character and 3 an aromatic MnN2C2 ring. The anion [Mn(CO)2(L-2H)]- reacts with Ph2PH to give a phosphido complex, which serves as phosphide transfer reagent to activated olefins. But the catalytic activity is low. However, the neutral amido complex 2 is an excellent catalyst and with loadings as low as 0.04 mol %, turn over frequencies of >40'000 h-1 can be achieved. Furthermore, secondary and primary alkyl phosphines as well as PH3 can be added in a catalytic hydrophosphination reaction to a wide range of activated olefins such as α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, ketones, esters, and nitriles. But also, vinyl pyridine and some styrene derivatives are converted into the corresponding phosphanes.

Impact of PVC microplastics in photodynamic inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA

Photodynamic processes have found widespread application in therapies. These processes involve photosensitizers (PSs) that, when excited by specific light wavelengths and in the presence of molecular oxygen, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), that target cells leading to inactivation. Photodynamic action has gained notable attention in environmental applications, particularly against pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) that pose a significant challenge to public health. However, environmental matrices frequently encompass additional contaminants and interferents, including microplastics (MPs), which are pollutants of current concern. Their presence in water and effluents has been extensively documented, highlighting their impact on conventional treatment methods, but this information remains scarce in the context of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) setups. Here, we described the effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microparticles in PDI targeting Staphylococcus aureus and its methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), using curcumin as a PS under blue light. The presence of PVC microparticles does not hinder ROS formation; however, depending on its concentration, it can impact bacterial inactivation. Our results underscore that PDI remains a potent method for reducing bacterial concentrations in water and wastewater containing ARB, even in highly contaminated scenarios with MPs.

The electron density: a fidelity witness for quantum computation

There is currently no combination of quantum hardware and algorithms that can provide an advantage over conventional calculations of molecules or materials. However, if or when such a point is reached, new strategies will be needed to verify predictions made using quantum devices. We propose that the electron density, obtained through experimental or computational means, can serve as a robust benchmark for validating the accuracy of quantum computation of chemistry. An initial exploration into topological features of electron densities, facilitated by quantum computation, is presented here as a proof of concept. Additionally, we examine the effects of constraining and symmetrizing measured one-particle reduced density matrices on noise-driven errors in the electron density distribution. We emphasize the potential benefits and future need for high-quality electron densities derived from diffraction experiments for validating classically intractable quantum computations of materials.

Dynamic and Static Nature of XH-∗-π and YX-∗-π (X = F, Cl, Br, and I; Y = X and F) in the Distorted π-System of Corannulene Elucidated with QTAIM Dual Functional Analysis

The dynamic and static nature of the XH-∗-π and YX-∗-π (X = F, Cl, Br, and I; Y = X and F) interactions in the distorted π-system of corannulene (π(C₂₀H₁₀)) is elucidated with a QTAIM dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA), where asterisks emphasize the presence of bond critical points (BCPs) on the interactions. The static and dynamic nature originates from the data of the fully optimized and perturbed structures, respectively, in QTAIM-DFA. On the convex side, H in F-H-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) and each X in Y-X-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) join to C of the central five-membered ring in π(C₂₀H₁₀) through a bond path (BP), while each H in X-H-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) does so to the midpoint of C=C in the central five-membered ring for X = Cl, Br, or I. On the concave side, each X in F-X-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) also joins to C of the central five-membered ring with a BP for X = H, Cl, Br, and I; however, the interactions in other adducts are more complex than those on the convex side. Both H and X in X-H-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) (X = Cl and Br) and both Fs in F-F-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) connect to the three C atoms in each central five-membered ring (with three BPs). Two, three, and five BPs were detected for the Cl-Cl, I-H, Br-Br, and I-I adducts, where some BPs do not stay on the central five-membered ring in π(C₂₀H₁₀). The interactions are predicted to have a vdW to CT-MC nature. The interactions on the concave side seem weaker than those on the convex side for X-H-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀), whereas the inverse trend is observed for Y-X-∗-π(C₂₀H₁₀) as a whole. The nature of the interactions in the π(C₂₀H₁₀) adducts of the convex and concave sides is examined in more detail, employing the adducts with X-H and F-X placed on their molecular axis together with the π(C₂₄H₁₂) and π(C₆H₆) adducts.

Bond-bending isomerism and metallophilicity in metal-halogen anions (Cu,Ag,Au)2X3 -, X = F, Cl, Br, I, At

In the framework of DFT (ABINIT package), we have performed atomic relaxations on the (Cu,Ag,Au)₂X₃ ^-, X = F, Cl, Br, I, At anion series. Opposite to linear (MX₂)^- anions, all (M₂X₃)^- systems are triangular (C _2v symmetry). According to the system, we classified these anions in three categories according to the relative strength of electronegativity, chemical hardness, metallophilicity and van der Waals interaction. We found two bond-bending isomers: (Au₂I₃)^- and (Au₂At₃)^-.

Dihydrogen Bonding-Seen through the Eyes of Vibrational Spectroscopy

In this work, we analyzed five groups of different dihydrogen bonding interactions and hydrogen clusters with an H3+ kernel utilizing the local vibrational mode theory, developed by our group, complemented with the Quantum Theory of Atoms-in-Molecules analysis to assess the strength and nature of the dihydrogen bonds in these systems. We could show that the intrinsic strength of the dihydrogen bonds investigated is primarily related to the protonic bond as opposed to the hydridic bond; thus, this should be the region of focus when designing dihydrogen bonded complexes with a particular strength. We could also show that the popular discussion of the blue/red shifts of dihydrogen bonding based on the normal mode frequencies is hampered from mode-mode coupling and that a blue/red shift discussion based on local mode frequencies is more meaningful. Based on the bond analysis of the H3+(H2)n systems, we conclude that the bond strength in these crystal-like structures makes them interesting for potential hydrogen storage applications.

A computational study of the inclusion of β-cyclodextrin and nicotinic acid: DFT, DFT-D, NPA, NBO, QTAIM, and NCI-RDG studies

Forming complexes with cyclodextrins can protect nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) from premature metabolism and enhance the solubility and stability of this drug. In this work, the formation of the inclusion complex of the neutral form of nicotinic acid and β-cyclodextrin was achieved. The complex is modeled using PM3, PM6-D4H3, and PM7, by considering two orientations of the guest: A and B, one is from wide to narrow rim, and the second is from narrow to the wide rim, respectively. The global minima positions were re-optimized using three density function methods: MN-15, B3LYP, and PW6B95-D3 with polarized Pople basis set 6-31G(d) in gas and aqueous phase. Orientation A showed the minimum complexation energy where the carboxylic functional group of nicotinic acid is located on the primary hydroxyl rim of β-cyclodextrin and the pyridine ring is totally embedded in the cavity. To further our study on the nature of complexation and the interactions of this host-guest system, different calculations were done. The reactivity indices showed that orientation A is harder than B and more electrophilic; the charge transfer occurred from the host to the guest and was confirmed by the natural population analysis (NPA). The natural bond orbitals (NBO) reveal the delocalization of orbitals between the host and the guest, quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis, and non-covalent interaction (NCI) analysis based on a reduced density gradient (RDG) give a detailed description of the nature of interactions between the host and the guest such as the hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interaction, and confirmed the stability of the complex given by the orientation A.

A DFT/TD-DFT Study on the ESIPT-Type Flavonoid Derivatives with High Emission Intensity

To reveal the influence of different substituents on the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process and photophysical properties of 4′-N, N-dimethylamino-3-hydroxyflavone (DMA3HF), two novel molecules (DMA3HF-CN and DMA3HF-NH2) were designed by introducing the classical electron-withdrawing group cyano (-CN) and electron-donating group amino (-NH2). The three molecules in the acetonitrile phase were systematically researched by applying the density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) methods. The excited-state hydrogen bond enhancement mechanism was confirmed, and the hydrogen bond intensity followed the decreasing order of DMA3HF-NH2 > DMA3HF > DMA3HF-CN, which can be explained at the electronic level by natural bond orbital, fuzzy bond order, and frontier molecular orbital analyses. Moreover, we found from the electronic spectra that the fluorescence intensity of the three molecules in keto form is relatively strong. Moreover, the calculated absorption properties indicated that introducing the electron-withdrawing group -CN could significantly improve the absorption of DMA3HF in the ultraviolet band. In summary, the introduction of an electron-donating group -NH2 can promote the ESIPT reaction of DMA3HF, without changing the photophysical properties, while introducing the electron-withdrawing group -CN can greatly improve the absorption of DMA3HF in the ultraviolet band, but hinders the occurrence of the ESIPT reaction.

Theoretical study on Xe⋯N non-covalent interactions: Three hybridization N with XeO3 and XeOF2

The interactions of complexes of XeOF2 and XeO3 with a series of different hybridization N-containing donors are studied by means of DFT and MP2 calculations. The aerogen bonding interaction energies range from 6.5 kcal/mol to 19.9 kcal/mol between XeO3 or XeOF2 and typical N-containing donors. The sequence of interaction for N-containing hybridization is sp3>sp2>sp, and XeO3 is higher than XeOF2. For some donors of sp2 and sp3 hybridization, the steric effect plays a minor role in the interaction with the evidence of reduced density gradient plots. The dominant stable part is the electrostatic interaction. In complex of XeO3, the weight of polarization is larger than dispersion, while the situation is opposite for XeOF2 complexes. Except for the sum of the maximum value of molecular electrostatic potential on Xe atom and minimum value of molecular electrostatic potential on N atom, the otherfive interaction parameters including the potential energy density at bond critical point, the equilibrium distances, interaction energies with the basis set superposition error correction, localized molecular orbital energy decomposition analysis interaction energies, and the electron charge density, show great linear correlation coefficients with each other.

Intrinsic Dynamic and Static Nature of π···π Interactions in Fused Benzene-Type Helicenes and Dimers, Elucidated with QTAIM Dual Functional Analysis

The intrinsic dynamic and static nature of the π···π interactions between the phenyl groups in proximity of helicenes 3-12 are elucidated with the quantum theory of atoms-in-molecules dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA). The π···π interactions appear in C-∗-C, H-∗-H, and C-∗-H, with the asterisks indicating the existence of bond critical points (BCPs) on the interactions. The interactions of 3-12 are all predicted to have a p-CS/vdW nature (vdW nature of the pure closed-shell interaction), except for 2Cbay-∗-7Cbay of 10, which has a p-CS/t-HBnc nature (typical-HBs with no covalency). (See the text for definition of the numbers of C and the bay and cape areas). The natures of the interactions are similarly elucidated between the components of helicene dimers 6:6 and 7:7 with QTAIM-DFA, which have a p-CS/vdW nature. The characteristic electronic structures of helicenes are clarified through the natures predicted with QTAIM-DFA. Some bond paths (BPs) in helicenes appeared or disappeared, depending on the calculation methods. The static nature of Ccape-∗-Ccape is very similar to that of Cbay-∗-Cbay in 9-12, whereas the dynamic nature of Ccape-∗-Ccape appears to be very different from that of Cbay-∗-Cbay. The results will be a guide to design the helicene-containing materials of high functionality.

Which Type of Pincer Complex Is Thermodynamically More Stable? Understanding the Structures and Relative Bond Strengths of Group 10 Metal Complexes Supported by Benzene-Based PYCYP Pincer Ligands

The influence of the pincer platform composition and substitution on the reactivity and physical properties of pincer complexes can be easily explored through different experimental techniques. However, the influence of these factors on the molecular structures and thermodynamic stability of pincer complexes is usually very subtle and cannot always be unambiguously established. To rationalize this subtle influence, a survey of crystallographic data from 130 group 10 metal pincer complexes supported by benzene-based PYCYP pincer ligands, [2,6-(R₂PY)₂C₆H_3-nR'_n]MX (Y = CH₂, NH, O, S; M = Ni, Pd, Pt; R = ^tBu, ⁱPr, Ph, Cy, Me; R' = CO₂Me, ^tBu, CF₃, Ac; n = 0-2; X = F, Cl, Br, I, H, SH, SPh, SBn, Ph, Me, N₃, NCS), was carried out. Theoretical calculations for some selected complexes were performed to evaluate the relative bond strength. It was found that the M-C_ipso bond length decreases following the linker series of CH₂ > NH > O and that the relative M-C_ipso bond strength increases following the linker series of CH₂ < NH < O. In most cases, the M-P bond length decreases following the linker series of NH > CH₂ > O. The relative M-P bond strength increases following the linker series of CH₂ < NH < O. A comparison of the thermochemical balance for the isodesmic displacement of the side-arm interactions with PH₃ as a probe ligand indicated that the Ni-P bond in a PCCCP-type pincer complex is far less difficult to break compared with that in a POCOP-type complex. As a result, with the same donor substituents and the same auxiliary ligand, the POCOP-type pincer complexes are thermodynamically more stable than the PCCCP complexes. The influence of other backbone and donor substitutions as well as the pincer platform composition on the M-C_ipso, M-P, and M-X bond lengths, relative bond strengths, and P-M-P bite angles was also discussed.

Role of Basic Surface Groups of Activated Carbon in Chlordecone and β-Hexachlorocyclohexane Adsorption: A Molecular Modelling Study

The influence of nitrogen-containing surface groups (SGs) onto activated carbon (AC) over the adsorption of chlordecone (CLD) and β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) was characterized by a molecular modelling study, considering pH (single protonated SGs) and hydration effect (up to three water molecules). The interactions of both pollutants with amines and pyridine as basic SGs of AC were studied, applying the multiple minima hypersurface (MMH) methodology and using PM7 semiempirical Hamiltonian. Representative structures from MMH were reoptimized using the M06-2X density functional theory. The quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) was used to characterize the interaction types in order understanding the adsorption process. A favorable association of both pesticides with the amines and pyridine SGs onto AC was observed at all pH ranges, both in the absence and presence of water molecules. However, a greater association of both pollutants with the primary amine was found under an acidic pH condition. QTAIM results show that the interactions of CLD and β-HCH with the SGs onto AC are governed by Cl···C interactions of chlorine atoms of both pesticides with the graphitic surface. Electrostatic interactions (H-bonds) were observed when water molecules were added to the systems. A physisorption mechanism is suggested for CLD and β-HCH adsorption on nitrogen-containing SGs of AC.

Guest-host complexes of 1-iodochlordecone and β-1-iodo-pentachlorocyclohexane with cyclodextrins as radiotracers of organochlorine pesticides in polluted water

The chlordecone (CLD) and the β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) are persistent organic pollutants with a great environmental stability that cause severe affectations to health. The concentration of these pesticides in the environment is low, which represent a problem for their determination, even for the modern analytical methods. The labeling of these compounds with an iodine radioisotope for their use as radiotracers is a potential solution to this problem. The present work studies the interaction of 1-iodochlordecone (I-CLD) and β-1-iodo-pentachlorocyclohexane (I-β-HCH) with cyclodextrins (CDs), during the formation of molecular inclusion complexes pesticide@CDs. The methodology of multiple minima hypersurfaces, quantic calculations based on density functional theory and a topologic study of electronic density were used to corroborate the stability of I-CLD@CDs and I-β-HCH@CDs complexes. Three main types of guest-host complexes in relation to the occlusion grade were observed: with total occlusion, with partial occlusion and external interaction without occlusion. The more stable complexes are obtained when the γ-CD is the host molecule. The formed complexes with radiolabelled pollutants are analogous with the ones reported in previous works. These results confirm the utility of these complexes for the removal of organochlorine pesticides from polluted water and, also, demonstrate the possibility of using the I-CLD and the I-β-HCH as possible radiotracers for these pollutants in further studies with environmental proposes.

Dynamic and Static Nature of Br4 σ(4c-6e) and Se2Br5 σ(7c-10e) in the Selenanthrene System and Related Species Elucidated by QTAIM Dual Functional Analysis with QC Calculations

The nature of Br4 σ(4c-6e) of the BBr-∗-ABr-∗-ABr-∗-BBr form is elucidated for SeC12H8(Br)SeBr---Br-Br---BrSe(Br)C12H8Se, the selenanthrene system, and the models with QTAIM dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA). Asterisks (∗) are employed to emphasize the existence of bond critical points on the interactions in question. Data from the fully optimized structure correspond to the static nature of interactions. In our treatment, data from the perturbed structures, around the fully optimized structure, are employed for the analysis, in addition to those from the fully optimized one, which represent the dynamic nature of interactions. The ABr-∗-ABr and ABr-∗-BBr interactions are predicted to have the CT-TBP (trigonal bipyramidal adduct formation through charge transfer) nature and the typical hydrogen bond nature, respectively. The nature of Se2Br5 σ(7c-10e) is also clarified typically, employing an anionic model of [Br-Se(C4H4Se)-Br---Br---Br-Se(C4H4Se)-Br]-, the 1,4-diselenin system, rather than (BrSeC12H8)Br---Se---Br-Br---Br-Se(C12H8Se)-Br, the selenanthrene system.

Intrinsic dynamic and static nature of each HB in the multi-HBs between nucleobase pairs and its behavior, elucidated with QTAIM dual functional analysis and QC calculations

The intrinsic dynamic and static nature of each HB in the multi-HBs between nucleobase pairs (Nu-Nu') is elucidated with QTAIM dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA). Perturbed structures generated using coordinates derived from the compliance constants (C ii ) are employed for QTAIM-DFA. The method is called CIV. Two, three, or four HBs are detected for Nu-Nu'. Each HB in Nu-Nu' is predicted to have the nature of CT-TBP (trigonal bipyramidal adduct formation through charge transfer (CT)), CT-MC (molecular complex formation through CT), or t-HBwc (typical HB with covalency), while the vdW nature is predicted for the C-H⋯X interactions, for example. Energies for the formation of the pairs (ΔE) are linearly correlated with the total values of C ii -1 in Nu-Nu'. The total C ii -1 values are obtained by summing each C ii -1 value, similarly to the case of Ohm's law for the parallel connection in the electric resistance. The total ΔE value for a nucleobase pair could be fractionalized to each HB, based on each C ii -1 value. The perturbed structures generated with CIV are very close to those generated with the partial optimization method, when the changes in the interaction distances are very small. The results provide useful insights for better understanding DNA processes, although they are highly enzymatic.

Relative Position and Relative Rotation in Supramolecular Systems through the Analysis of the Principal Axes of Inertia: Ferrocene/Cucurbit[7]uril and Ferrocenyl Azide/β-Cyclodextrin Case Studies

Parameters comprising the relative position and relative rotation of molecules can be evaluated when the principal axes of inertia of the entities in a supramolecular association are employed as reference. Such information applies to the characterization and identification of experimental and theoretical nonbonded systems. The parameters are relevant to geometric comparison (for theory and experiment) and, for instance, to monitoring structures by theoretical simulations. This work introduces a software developed to obtain such parameters through the discussion of some intriguing host-guest systems, the ferrocene/cucurbit[7]uril and ferrocenyl azide/β-cyclodextrin. The ideas within this contribution naturally apply to the study of other nonbonded associations beyond host-guest chemistry. A modified version of the software discussed herein serves to obtain user-defined spatial arrangements for two nonbonded entities. Therefore, with a given geometry, for instance, from X-ray data, the parameters can be derived, and with the parameters, from a theoretical perspective, a spatial arrangement can be obtained.

Nickel-catalyzed hydroalkenylation of styrene with phenylpropanal: theoretical studies on the mechanism, regioselectivity, and role of phenylboronic acid

The effects of different solvents, Brønsted acids, and ligands on reactivity are clarified through our calculations.

Evaluation of the molecular inclusion process of β-hexachlorocyclohexane in cyclodextrins

The present work aimed to study the guest-host complexes of β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), a pesticide with high environmental stability that can cause severe health problems, with the most common cyclodextrins (α-, β-, and γ-CDs). The formation reactions of these molecular inclusion complexes were addressed in this research. The multiple minima hypersurface methodology, quantum calculations based on density functional theory and a topological exploration of the electron density based on the quantum theory of atoms in molecules approach were used to characterize the interaction spaces of the pollutant with the three CDs. Additionally, charge distribution, charge transfer and dual descriptor analyses were employed to elucidate the driving forces involved in the formation of these molecular inclusion complexes. Three types of fundamental interactions were observed: total occlusion, partial occlusion and external interaction (non-occlusion). Finally, experiments were performed to confirm the formation of the studied complexes. The most stable complexes were obtained when γ-CD was the host molecule. The interactions between the pesticide and CDs have fundamentally dispersive natures, as was confirmed experimentally by spectroscopic results. All the obtained results suggest the possibility of using CDs for the purification and treatment of water polluted with β-HCH.

A new strategy to generate super and hyper acids with simple organic molecules exploiting σ-hole interaction

Super and hyper acidity can be achieved using σ-hole non-covalent interactions with simple organic systems. The σ-hole interaction can stabilize the conjugate base of acids to such an extent that cyclopentadiene yields a ΔH_acid of 256 kcal mol^-1, which is ∼100 kcal mol^-1 lower than the reported results. The hyper acidic value of 209.0 kcal mol^-1 of organic acids has been achieved without electron-withdrawing substituents rather exploiting only σ-hole interaction. Remarkably, the 1st and 2nd acidity values (∼229 kcal mol^-1) of comparable strength in the hyperacid range have been observed for the first time using DFT computations. The simple organic acids were predicted to reach the pK_a values in the range of -7.3 to -7.8 in DMSO, which is remarkably lower than previous reports. These stable anions can be a potential candidate for application as an effective electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries.

Nature of intramolecular O-H⋯π interactions as elucidated by QTAIM dual functional analysis with QC calculations

The intrinsic dynamic and static nature of intramolecular OH-*-π interactions is elucidated using a QTAIM dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA) after clarifying the structural features. Asterisks (*) are employed to emphasize the presence of bond critical points (BCPs) on the bond paths (BPs), which correspond to the interactions in question. Data from the fully optimized structures correspond to the static nature of the interactions. In our treatment, data from the perturbed structures, which are based around the fully optimized structure, are employed for the analysis in addition to those from the fully optimized structure, which represent the dynamic nature of the interaction. Seven intramolecular OH-*-C(π) interactions were detected in six-membered rings, with six BPs and BCPs for each, among the 72 conformers of the species examined here (1-15). The interactions are predicted to have a vdW or t-HBnc (typical hydrogen bonds with no covalency) nature, which appeared in the pure closed shell region. They appear to be stronger than the corresponding intermolecular interactions. Nine BPs with BCPs were also detected for the intramolecular O-*-X interactions (X = C(π) and H(π), joined to C(π)) in the 5-7-membered rings. The E(2) values of the interactions, as obtained by NBO, are discussed in relation to the stabilities of the conformers and the BPs with BCPs.

Explaining the interactions between metaldehyde and acidic surface groups of activated carbon under different pH conditions

Metaldehyde (MA) is an organic compound widely used in agriculture all around the world as molluscicide. There are growing concerns that relatively high levels of MA have been detected in surface water, which could be ascribed to the fact that it is transparent to common wastewater treatment processes. A theoretical study of the influence of activated carbon (AC) surface groups (SGs) on MA adsorption is done in order to help to understand the process and to evaluate the influence of the acid SGs over the adsorption in AC filters. Multiple Minima Hypersurface methodology was employed in order to study the interactions of the MA with acid SGs (hydroxyl and carboxyl) at acidic and neutral pH, and at different hydration conditions explicitly taking into account the solvent influence. Selected structures were re-optimized using Density Functional Theory and posteriorly refined to achieve a well-defined electron density to characterize the interactions by the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules approach. The obtained results showed that the presence of SGs enhances the adsorption process. The deprotonated carboxyl and hydroxyl SGs of AC models show the strongest interactions, suggesting greater adsorption at neutral pH which is in concordance with experimental data. The main interactions are of a dispersive nature between the pesticide and the π-cloud of the AC and hydrogen bonds between the MA and the acid SGs suggesting that the adsorption process is driven by a physisorption mechanism. Water acts as an intermediary between the AC and MA and competing with it for the adsorption sites.

Steric and Electronic Effects in Gold N-Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes Revealed by Computational Analysis

A computational analysis of a series of cationic and neutral gold imidazolylidene and benzimidizolylidene complexes is reported. The Bond Dissociation Energies of the various ligands in the complexes calculated at the PBE0-D3/def2-TZVP level of theory increase with increasing ligand volume, except for those of complexes containing t-butyl-substituted ligands, which are anomalously low particularly for the benzimidazolylidene species. Atoms in Molecules studies show the presence of a variety of weak intramolecular interactions, characterised by the presence of bond critical points with a range of different properties. Energy Decomposition Analysis and calculation of Electrostatic Surface Potentials indicate that some interactions are weakly attractive dispersion-type interactions, while others are repulsive. The octanol/water partition coefficients (log P values) were calculated as a measure of the lipophilicities of the complexes and were found to increase with increasing volume.

Spectroscopic and Computational Evidence of Intramolecular AuI ⋅⋅⋅H+ -N Hydrogen Bonding

Despite substantial evidence of short Au⋅⋅⋅H−X contacts derived from a number of X‐ray structures of Au^I compounds, the nature of Au^I⋅⋅⋅H bonding in these systems has not been clearly understood. Herein, we present the first spectroscopic evidence for an intramolecular Au^I⋅⋅⋅H⁺−N hydrogen bond in a [Cl−Au−L]⁺ complex, where L is a protonated N‐heterocyclic carbene. The complex was isolated in the gas phase and characterized with helium‐tagging infrared photodissociation (IRPD) spectra, in which H⁺−N‐mode‐derived bands evidence the intramolecular Au^I⋅⋅⋅H⁺−N bond. Quantum chemical calculations reproduce the experimental IRPD spectra and allow to characterize the intramolecular Au⋅⋅⋅H⁺−N bonding with a short r_Au⋅⋅⋅H distance of 2.17 Å and an interaction energy of approximately −10 kcal mol⁻¹. Various theoretical descriptors of chemical bonding calculated for the Au⋅⋅⋅H⁺−N interaction provide strong evidence for a hydrogen bond of moderate strength.

Nature of the E⋯E′ interactions (E, E′ = O, S, Se, and Te) at naphthalene 1,8-positions with fine details of the structures: experimental and theoretical investigations

The nature of E⋯E′ in 1-RE–8-R′E′C₁₀H₆ (E/E′ = O, S, Se and Te) is clarified with the QTAIM approach and NBO analysis, after structural determinations.

Pentamethylcyclopentadienyl ruthenium “pogo stick” complexes with nitrogen donor ligands

The preparation and reactivity of an imidazolin-2-iminato ruthenium complex with a rare one-legged piano-stool (“pogo stick”) geometry is reported.

The nature of G⋯E–Y σ(3c–4e) in o-MenGCH2C6H4EY (MenG = Me2N and MeE; E = O, S, Se and Te; Y = F, Cl, Br, EMe and Me) with contributions from CT and compliance constants in noncovalent G⋯E interactions

The intrinsic dynamic and static nature of G–*–E–*–Y σ(3c–4e) interactions was elucidated with the quantum theory of atoms in molecules dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA), employing o-Me_nGCH₂C₆H₄EY (Me_nG = Me₂N and MeE; E = O, S, Se and Te; Y = F, Cl, Br, I, EMe and Me). Asterisks (*) are employed to emphasize the existence of bond critical points (BCPs) on the bond paths (BPs), corresponding to the interactions in question. Data from the fully optimized structure correspond to the static nature of interactions. The dynamic nature is called the intrinsic dynamic nature if the perturbed structures are generated using the coordinates derived from the compliance constants. Basis sets of the Sapporo-TZP type with diffusion functions are employed for the heteroatoms at the MP2 level. The noncovalent G–*–E interactions in GEY σ(3c–4e) are predicted to demonstrate van der Waals bonding to CT-TBP (trigonal bipyramidal adduct formation through charge transfer) nature, while the E–*–Y bonds have the covalent nature. Some E–F bonds show strong ionic character when G–*–E is predicted to be stronger than E–*–Y. The contributions of the CT terms to the G–*–E interactions, evaluated with NBO, are discussed in relation to the predicted nature. The E(2) values based on NBO are strongly correlated to the compliance constants for the G–*–E interactions if suitably treated separately.

The nature of E⋯E′ in 1-RECH₂-2-R′E′C₆H₄ (E/E′ = O, S, Se and Te) is clarified with QTAIM approach and NBO analysis, after structural determinations.

Intrinsic Dynamic Nature of Neutral Hydrogen Bonds Elucidated with QTAIM Dual Functional Analysis: Role of the Compliance Force Constants and QTAIM-DFA Parameters in Stability

The dynamic and static nature of various neutral hydrogen bonds (nHBs) is elucidated with quantum theory of atoms-in-molecules dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA). The perturbed structures generated by using the coordinates derived from the compliance force constants (Cij ) of internal vibrations are employed for QTAIM-DFA. The method is called CIV. The dynamic nature of CIV is described as the "intrinsic dynamic nature", as the coordinates are invariant to the choice of the coordinate system. nHBs are, for example, predicted to be van der Waals (H2Se-✶-HSeH; ✶=bond critical point), t-HBnc (typical-HBs with no covalency: HI-✶-HI), t-HBwc (t-HBs with covalency: H2C=O-✶-HI), CT-MC [molecular complex formation through charge transfer (CT): H2C=O-✶-HF], and CT-TBP (trigonal bipyramidal adduct formation through CT: H3N-✶-HI) in nature. The results with CIV were the same as those with POM in the calculation errors, for which the perturbed structures were generated by partial optimization, and the interaction distances in question were fixed suitably in POM. The highly excellent applicability of CIV for QTAIM-DFA was demonstrated for the various nHBs, as well as for the standard interactions previously reported. The stability of the HBs, evaluated by ΔE, is well correlated with Cij (ΔE×Cij =constant value of -165.64), and the QTAIM parameters, although a few deviations were detected.

Behaviour of the XH-*-π and YX-*-π interactions (X, Y = F, Cl, Br and I) in the coronene π-system, as elucidated by QTAIM dual functional analysis with QC calculations

The dynamic and static nature of XH-*-π and YX-*-π in the coronene π-system (π(C24H12)) is elucidated by QTAIM dual functional analysis, where * emphasizes the presence of bond critical points (BCPs) in the interactions. The nature of the interactions is elucidated by analysing the plots of the total electron energy densities H b(r c) versus H b(r c) - V b(r c)/2 [=(ħ 2/8m)∇2 ρ b(r c)] for the interactions at BCPs, where V b(r c) are the potential energy densities at the BCPs. The data for the perturbed structures around the fully optimized structures are employed for the plots in addition to those of the fully optimized structures. The plots are analysed using the polar coordinate of (R, θ) for the data of the fully optimized structures, while those containing the perturbed structures are analysed using (θ p, κ p), where θ p corresponds to the tangent line of each plot and κ p is the curvature. Whereas (R, θ) show the static nature, (θ p, κ p) represent the dynamic nature of the interactions. All interactions in X-H-*-π(C24H12) (X = F, Cl, Br and I) and Y-X-*-π(C24H12) (Y-X = F-F, Cl-Cl, Br-Br, I-I, F-Cl, F-Br and F-I) are classified by pure CS (closed shell) interactions and are characterized as having the vdW nature, except for X-H = F-H and Y-X = F-Cl, F-Br and F-I, which show the typical-HB nature without covalency. The structural features of the complexes are also discussed.

Theoretical study on the interactions between chlordecone hydrate and acidic surface groups of activated carbon under basic pH conditions

A theoretical study of the influence of acidic surface groups (SG) of activated carbon (AC) on chlordecone hydrate (CLDh) adsorption is presented, in order to help understanding the adsorption process under basic pH conditions. A seven rings aromatic system (coronene) with a functional group in the edge was used as a simplified model of AC to evaluate the influence of SG in the course of adsorption from aqueous solution at basic pH conditions. Two SG were modeled in their deprotonated form: carboxyl and hydroxyl (COO^- and O^-), interacting with CLDh. In order to model the solvation process, all systems under study were calculated with up to three water molecules. Multiple Minima Hypersurface (MMH) methodology was employed to study the interactions of CLDh with SG on AC using PM7 semiempirical Hamiltonian, to explore the potential energy surfaces of the systems and evaluate their thermodynamic association energies. The re-optimization of representative structures obtained from MMH was done using M06-2X Density Functional Theory. The Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) was used to characterize the interaction types. As result, the association of CLDh with acidic SG at basic pH conditions preferentially occurs between the two alcohol groups of CLDh with COO^- and O^- groups and by dispersive interactions of chlorine atoms of CLDh with the graphitic surface. On the other hand, the presence of covalent interactions between the negatively charged oxygen of SG and one hydrogen atom of CLDh alcohol groups (O^-⋯HO interactions) without water molecules, was confirmed by QTAIM study. It can be concluded that the interactions of CLDh with acidic SG of AC under basic pH conditions confirms the physical mechanisms of adsorption process.

High-resolution X-ray diffraction determination of the electron density of 1-(8-PhSC10H6)SS(C10H6SPh-8')-1' with the QTAIM approach: evidence for S4 σ(4c-6e) at the naphthalene peri-positions

An extended hypervalent S4 σ(4c-6e) system was confirmed for the linear BS-∗-AS-∗-AS-∗-BS interaction in 1-(8-PhBSC10H6)AS-AS(C10H6 BSPh-8')-1' (1) via high-resolution X-ray diffraction determination of electron densities. The presence of bond critical points (BCPs; ∗) on the bond paths confirms the nature and extent of this interaction. The recently developed QTAIM dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA) approach was also applied to elucidate the nature of the interaction. Total electron energy densities H b( r c) were plotted versus H b( r c) - V b( r c)/2 for the interaction at the BCPs, where V b( r c) represents the potential energy densities at the BCP. The results indicate that although the data for an interaction in the fully optimized structure corresponds to a static nature, the data obtained for the perturbed structures around it represent the dynamic nature of the interaction in QTAIM-DFA. The former classifies the interaction and the latter characterises it. Although AS-∗-AS in 1 is classified by a shared shell interaction and exhibits weak covalent character, AS-∗-BS is characterized as having typical hydrogen-bond nature with covalent properties in the region of the regular closed shell interactions. The experimental results are supported by matching theoretical calculations throughout, particularly for the extended hypervalent E4 σ(4c-6e) (E = S) interaction.

Behavior of the E-E' Bonds (E, E' = S and Se) in Glutathione Disulfide and Derivatives Elucidated by Quantum Chemical Calculations with the Quantum Theory of Atoms-in-Molecules Approach

The nature of the E–E’ bonds (E, E’ = S and Se) in glutathione disulfide (1) and derivatives 2–3, respectively, was elucidated by applying quantum theory of atoms-in-molecules (QTAIM) dual functional analysis (QTAIM-DFA), to clarify the basic contribution of E–E’ in the biological redox process, such as the glutathione peroxidase process. Five most stable conformers a–e were obtained, after applying the Monte-Carlo method then structural optimizations. In QTAIM-DFA, total electron energy densities H_b(r_c) are plotted versus H_b(r_c) − V_b(r_c)/2 at bond critical points (BCPs), where V_b(r_c) are potential energy densities at BCPs. Data from the fully optimized structures correspond to the static nature. Those containing perturbed structures around the fully optimized one in the plot represent the dynamic nature of interactions. The behavior of E–E’ was examined carefully. Whereas E–E’ in 1a–3e were all predicted to have the weak covalent nature of the shared shell interactions, two different types of S–S were detected in 1, depending on the conformational properties. Contributions from the intramolecular non-covalent interactions to stabilize the conformers were evaluated. An inverse relationship was observed between the stability of a conformer and the strength of E–E’ in the conformer, of which reason was discussed.

New insights into the solubility of graphene oxide in water and alcohols

One of the main advantages of graphene oxide (GO) over its non-oxidized counterpart is its ability to form stable solutions in water and some organic solvents. At the same time, the nature of GO solutions is not completely understood; the existing data are scarce and controversial. Here, we demonstrate that the solubility of GO, and the stability of the as-formed solutions depend not just on the solute and solvent cohesion parameters, as commonly believed, but mostly on the chemical interactions at the GO/solvent interface. By the DFT and QTAIM calculations, we demonstrate that the solubility of GO is afforded by strong hydrogen bonding established between GO functional groups and solvent molecules. The main functional groups taking part in hydrogen bonding are tertiary alcohols; epoxides play only a minor role. The magnitude of the bond energy values is significantly higher than that for typical hydrogen bonding. The hydrogen bond energy between GO functional groups and solvent molecules decreases in the sequence: water > methanol > ethanol. We support our theoretical results by several experimental observations including solution calorimetry. The enthalpy of GO dissolution in water, methanol and ethanol is -0.1815 ± 0.0010, -0.1550 ± 0.0012 and -0.1040 ± 0.0010 kJ g^-1, respectively, in full accordance with the calculated trend. Our findings provide an explanation for the well-known, but poorly understood solvent exchange phenomenon.

Ligand-driven formation of halogen bonds involving Au(i) complexes

A theoretical investigation shows that the Au(i) centre in a variety of complexes can behave as a halogen bond acceptor.

How does the total charge and isomerism influence the Ru–NO ammine complexes?

The NO bioavailability is controlled from Ru–NO complexes, and thus, the influence of the total charge and ligands is explored from DFT calculations.