Synthesis, structure and catecholase-like activity of a new dicopper(II) complex with benzoylacetonate ligand

Tetrameric ethoxo-bridged copper(II)-benzoylacetonate complex Cu4(bnac)4(μ-OEt)4 was isolated and characterized. Single crystal X-ray structure of the tetrameric complex is also reported. The in situ-generated Cu2(bnac)2(μ-OEt)2(4R-py)4 complexes show catecholase 2 activity. The study reveals the importance of the electron density on the copper centers influenced by the nature of axial ligands.