Synthesis, crystallographic and electrochemical study of ethynyl[2.2]paracyclophane-derived cobalt metallatetrahedranes

► A series of alkynyl cobalt complexes has been prepared and characterized. ► The molecular structures of different compounds have been determined by X-ray diffraction. ► Electrochemical studies and luminescence spectroscopy have been used. ► No electronic coupling between the Co2(CO)n centres via the bridging PCP-ligand was evidenced.