Synthesis and complexation properties of novel triazoyl-based ferrocenyl ligands

Two new ligand derivatives of ferrocene, namely N-4-[3,5-di-(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazoyl]ferrocene carbimine (L1) and N-4-[3,5-di-(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazoyl]ferrocene carbamide (L2), were synthesised in good yields by reacting the known compound 3,5-di-pyridine-2-yl-[1,2,4]triazol-4-ylamine (1) with ferrocenecarbaldehyde and chlorocarbonyl ferrocene, respectively. The structures of L1 and L2 were determined by X-ray crystallography. The complexation of L1 and L2 with CuI, AgI, ZnII and CdII was studied by NMR and UV–vis spectroscopies, as well as by electrochemistry, with titrations used to determine metal:ligand stoichiometries. The cyclic voltammograms of L1 and L2 and their respective complexes indicated reversible one-electron transfers corresponding to the Fc0/+ redox couple (Fc = ferrocene), with formal electrode potentials shifting to more positive values upon metal complexation.

Graphical abstractThe full characterisation and binding properties of two new ferrocene-containing ligands, which have been designed to form [2 × 2] grids upon complexation with metal ions, is described.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide