Synthesis and characterization of the gold dithiolene monoanion, (Bu4N)[Au(pdt = 2,3-pyrazinedithiol)2]

We report the first synthesis and isolation of the gold dithiolene complex (Bu4N)[Au(pdt = 2,3-pyrazinedithiol)2]. We characterize this complex using X-ray crystallography, infrared spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The title complex is structurally similar to other gold dithiolene complexes. We find that the monoanion and dianion are linked by a reversible electrochemical event, but electrochemical generation of other redox states are irreversible processes. Generation of the dianion and protonation of the monoanion lead to reversible changes in the UV–Vis spectroscopy – primarily for the HOMO−1 → LUMO transition.

Graphical abstractWe report the synthesis of a novel gold dithiolene complex, with nitrogen-based basic sites on the redox-active dithiolene unit. The complex is both redox-active and responsive to addition of acid. We characterize this species using single crystal X-ray diffraction, electrochemistry, UV–Vis spectroelectrochemistry, and UV–Vis spectrophotometric titrations.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide