Structural properties and applications of multidentate [O,N,O,X′] aminobisphenolate metal complexes

Aminobisphenols with side-arm donors are versatile tetradentate ligands that effectively coordinate to the metal ions in a tripodal fashion. Most of the metal ions form electrically neutral isolable complexes with aminobisphenolates with different side chains. However, some anionic complexes and zwitterions are also described.The coordination geometry of the metal centre can be controlled by the ligand design. Especially, the ortho-substituents of the phenolate moieties as well as the nature of side-arm donor influence the structure and reactivity of the complexes formed. Depending on the metal ion and the ligand environment, the complexes formed can be monomeric or dimeric ones. Several heterobimetallic complexes are also known.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (65 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Aminobisphenols with side-arm donors are versatile tetradentate ligands that effectively coordinate to the metal ions in a tripodal fashion. ► Most of the metal ions form electrically neutral complexes with aminobisphenolates with different side chains. ► The coordination geometry of the metal centre can be controlled by the ligand design. ► The ortho-substituents of the phenolate moieties as well as the nature of side-arm donor influence the structure and reactivity of the formed complexes.