Tuning one dimensional chiral channel interior in mixed ligand Cu(II) complexes of l-histidine derivative and substituted pyridine

Four pentacoordinated square-pyramidal Cu(II) complexes with the general formula [Cu(L)(X)], where L is a l-histidine derived tetradentate ligand and X is either 3-hydroxypyridine or 2-methylpyridine, has been synthesized. Structural analysis showed that the presence of water filled one dimensional chiral channel in the lattices. The interiors of the channels were varied using aromatic ring substitution on the ligand as well as on the monodentate ligand. The dimensions of the channels range from ∼7 to 9 Å.

Graphical abstractThis manuscript focussed on the formation of one dimensional chiral channel in a set of mixed ligand Cu(II) monomeric complexes and effect of aromatic ring substitution on the channel interiors. For this we have synthesized and structurally characterized a set of Cu(II) complexes all of which shows formation of channels. Structural data were compared and factors to vary the interiors and stability of the channels were discussed.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Cu(II) complexes with L-histidine and pyridine derivatives. ► Crystals contains chiral channels of different size. ► Channels are one dimentional and filled with H-bonded water. ► Channel interiors varied with ligand substitutions. ► All complexes have extensive H-bonding.