Chemical Chartographisis: a contemporary perspective in molecular design and synthesis

The use of flexible molecular systems in solution, without strictly controlling their behaviour, has frequently been productive. Their potential could increase by a more holistic view of the reaction(s) process(es) in which they are involved. In this perspective, we introduce a broader approach - "Chemical Chartographisis" - and discuss three projects in detail to illustrate its potential. The topics involve bimetallic 3d/4f species and coordination compounds built from benzotriazole-based and (a)symmetric salan ligands and focus on catalytic and, in less detail, biological-related examples.

Counter-complementarity control of the weak exchange interaction in a bent {Ni(ii)3} complex with a μ-phenoxide-μ-carboxylate double bridge

We report a combined computational and experimental study of a weak exchange interaction in a bent {Ni(ii)₃} complex controlled by counter-complementarity.

Transformative 3d-4f coordination cluster carriers

The aim of this perspective is to summarise the use of the reported 3d-4f Coordination Clusters (CCs) in catalytic reactions and to demonstrate the potential of this emerging field. The pioneering work of Shibasaki, Matsunaga and others, demonstrated the use of 3d-4f in situ systems to catalyse asymmetric organic transformations. Our recent studies show that well characterised 3d-4f CCs catalyse numerous organic transformations and useful mechanistic aspects of their catalysis can be obtained. Furthermore, we have shown that by manipulation of the metal ion coordination environment; the nature of the 3d and lanthanide ions and the organic periphery of the ligand can all improve the efficacy of a 3d-4f CC catalyst. All in situ formed and well characterized 3d-4f CCs involved in catalysis are discussed.

An octanuclear Schiff-base complex with a Na2Ni6 core: structure, magnetism and DFT calculations

An octanuclear complex with a Na₂Ni₆ core was prepared and characterized. Its magnetic properties were thoroughly studied by experimental and theoretical methods.

Tetranuclear Zn2Ln2 coordination clusters as catalysts in the Petasis borono-Mannich multicomponent reaction

We report for the first time the efficiency of heteronuclear Zn/Ln coordination clusters (CCs) as catalysts for the multicomponent Mannich-type condensation that involves amines, aldehydes and boronic acids, known as the Petasis borono-Mannich (RBR) reaction.

Tetranuclear Zn/4f coordination clusters as highly efficient catalysts for Friedel–Crafts alkylation

A series of custom-designed isoskeletal tetranuclear 3d/4f coordination clusters (CCs) show high efficiency as catalysts in Friedel–Crafts alkylation.