Synthesis, structure, and photoluminescence of ZnII and CdII coordination complexes constructed by structurally related 5,6-substituted pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylate ligands

► Research on the coordination chemistry of related pyrazine-dicarboxylate ligands. ► Seven new ZnII and CdII coordination complexes have been obtained. ► The strong fluorescent properties of seven compounds are discussed.