Synthesis and luminescent properties of a silylated-terpyridine derivative and its metalated complexes in solutions and self-assembled monolayers

A silylated-terpyridine (SiTPy) derivative was newly synthesized and reacted with various transition metal ions in the solutions and self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). Composition and morphology of the SAMs were characterized by using absorption spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectra and atomic force microscope. The silylated-TPy compound gave off a luminescent emission at about 456 nm, which slightly shifted to 452 nm in the Zn2+-SiTPy and Fe2+-SiTPy metalated complexes. The absorbed energy can be further transferred to lanthanide ions (Tb3+ and Eu3+) to give off the typical emissions of the lanthanide complexes together with an emission of the silylated-TPy at about 363 nm.

Graphical abstractA silylated-terpyridine derivative was synthesized and assembled on the substrate surface. Coordination of the ligand with the transition metals ions and their luminescent properties were investigated in the solutions and self-assembled monolayers.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide