Self-assembly of trigonal prismatic M6(μ–L)9 coordination cages

The new ligand bis-bidentate ligand L, containing two pyrazolyl-pyridine chelating units connected to a 1,8-anthracene-diyl core via methylene spacers, reacts with Zn(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) salts to form trigonal prismatic coordination cages [M6(μ–L)9]12+ in which a metal ion occupies each vertex and a bridging ligand spans each edge; the structure is stabilised by anions which occupy the central cavity and the gaps in the centres of the triangular faces, and also by extensive inter-ligand aromatic stacking between anthracenyl and pyrazolyl-pyridine groups.

Graphical abstractA new series of trigonal prismatic coordination cages, with a metal ion at each vertex and a bridging ligand along each edge, is described.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Self assembly of new coordination cages with a trigonal prismatic core structure. ► Cyclic triple helical M3L3 faces connected by bridging ligands. ► Fluorescent ligands containing anthracenyl bridging units.