Studies on 1-alkyl-2-(arylazo)imidazole complexes of lead(II) and their photoisomerization

► Halide bridging Pb(II)-1-alkyl-2-(arylazo)imidazole [Pb(RaaiR′)(μ-X)2]n are described. ► The crystal structure of [Pb(MeaaiMe)(μ-Cl)2]n has confirmed bridged coordination polymer. ► The coordinated azoimidazole undergoes E-to-Z isomerization upon UV light irradiation. ► Quantum yields (ϕE→Z) of free ligand is higher than their coordinated phase in Pb(II) complex. ► DFT computation has explained the spectroscopic and photochromic behavior.