Main group metal chalcogenidometalates with transition metal complexes of 1,10-phenanthroline and 2,2′-bipyridine

Inorganic-organic hybrid main group metal chalcogenidometalates have attracted considerable interest due to their various topological structures and potential applications in solid electrolytes, non-oxygen zeolites, and photo- or electro-catalysts. These compounds are typically synthesized under hydro(solvo)thermal conditions at relatively low temperature using various organic amines. Comprehensive reviews have summarized the preparation and structures of these main group metal chalcogenidometalates. A particular research challenge in this field is using the chelating imines, such as 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) and 2,2′-bipyridine (bpy), in the synthesis of inorganic-organic hybrid main group metal chalcogenidometalates because their transition metal complexes can add new optical or electronic properties to the host chalcogenide compounds. Thus, a series of unique chalcogenidometalates with M-phen and M-bpy complexes (M = metal ions) have been isolated recently. These compounds have unusual optical and photoelectronic properties compared with those of the amine series. The present review focuses on recent developments in the synthesis, structures, and properties of these chalcogenidometalates. A comprehensive outline is provided of the chalcogenidometalate compounds with discrete M-phen/bpy complex cations or covalently bonded M-phen/bpy moieties. In addition, the new functional properties of these compounds are summarized.