Linked Supramolecular Building Blocks for Enhanced Cluster Formation

• Published in: Chemistry : a European journal 2015-02, Vol.21 (7), p.2804-2812
• Main Authors: McLellan, Ross, Palacios, Maria A., Beavers, Christine M., Teat, Simon J., Piligkos, Stergios, Brechin, Euan K., Dalgarno, Scott J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Assembly; Binding; calixarenes; Chemistry; Clusters; coordination chemistry; Covalence; Formations; INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY; Ions; Ligands; Magnetic properties; magnetism; Metals; supramolecular chemistry; Transition metals
• ISSN: 0947-6539; 1521-3765
• DOI: 10.1002/chem.201405746

Methylene‐bridged calix[4]arenes have emerged as extremely versatile ligand supports in the formation of new polymetallic clusters possessing fascinating magnetic properties. Metal ion binding rules established for this building block allow one to partially rationalise the complex assembly process. The ability to covalently link calix[4]arenes at the methylene bridge provides significantly improved control over the introduction of different metal centres to resulting cluster motifs. Clusters assembled from bis‐calix[4]arenes and transition metal ions or 3d‐4f combinations display characteristic features of the analogous calix[4]arene supported clusters, thereby demonstrating an enhanced and rational approach towards the targeted synthesis of complex and challenging structures. The butterfly effect: Calix[4]arenes are versatile structural supports for polymetallic clusters possessing fascinating magnetic properties. Bis‐calix[4]arene is shown to offer enhanced control over the assembly of such species, and a rational approach towards the targeted synthesis of complex and challenging structures.