Synthesis, X-ray crystal structure and photophysical properties of tris(dibenzoylmethanido)(1,10-phenanthroline)samarium(III)

Herein we report for the first time the complete characterization and photophysical properties of tris(dibenzoylmethanido)(1,10-phenanthroline)samarium(III) (Sm(DBM)3phen) in the absence of a polymer matrix. The solid state structure of Sm(DBM)3phen has been determined by single-crystal X-ray crystallography and shows the geometry of the local coordination environment around the samarium(III) ion to be a slightly distorted square antiprism. The absolute quantum yield and luminescence lifetime were measured as 0.86 ± 0.40% and 41 ± 2 μs, respectively.

Graphical abstractThe visible and near-infrared spectroscopic properties of Sm(DBM)3phen have been studied for the first time in the absence of a polymer matrix and under a variety of conditions. The title complex displays a quantum yield that is four times greater than the average value previously reported for Sm(III) in solution.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide