Synthesis, structure and properties of a trinuclear compound [Cu2Cd(tren)2(NCS)6]: Example of dynamic molecular ion, [Cd(NCS)6−n(SCN)n]4−(n = 0–6)

A 1:2:2:6 molar ratio of Cd(NO3)2 · 4H2O, Cu(NO3)2 · 3H2O, tris(2-aminoethylamine) (tren) and NH4NCS in aqueous solution at room temperature affords trinuclear complex of the type [Cu2Cd(tren)2(NCS)6] (1). The complex has been characterised using microanalytical, spectroscopic and magnetic results. X-ray diffraction measurements have been made to define the coordination sphere and long-range structure. 1 consists of two pentacoordinated copper(II) occupied by tren N atoms and one bridging SCN− N atom of the central trans-[Cd(NCS)4(SCN)2]4− molecular ion which bridges by the 1,3-thiocyanate. Each of these trinuclear units are engaged in intra as well as intermolecular N–H⋯S hydrogen bonding. Variable-temperature magnetic study shows no significant magnetic interactions among the metal ions.

Graphical abstractA 1:2:2:6 molar ratio of Cd(NO3)2 · 4H2O, Cu(NO3)2 · 3H2O, tren and NH4NCS in aqueous solution affords a trinuclear complex of the type [Cu2Cd(tren)2(NCS)6] (1). The crystal structure of 1 displays three-dimensional hydrogen bonded network of the trinuclear units.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide