Variable denticity of a multidentate terthiophene derivative towards Ni(II) and Zn(II) - structural studies

Abstract

A multidentate ligand, 3,4-bis(2-iminomethylphenol)-2,2’:5,2’’-terthiophene (L), has been synthesized by the condensation of 3,4-diamino-2,2’:5,2’’-terthiophene and salicylaldehyde. The ligand and Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized by IR, NMR, UV-Vis, AAS, MS, molar conductivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The ligand behaves as neutral ONS-ONS bis-chelant towards Ni(II) in [Ni_₂LCl_₄(H_₂O)_₂]×4H_₂O and as dibasic ONNO donor towards Zn(II) in [ZnL(NH₃)_₂]. The dinuclear Ni(II) complex exhibits subnormal magnetic moment at room temperature due to metal-metal interaction through extended conjugation. The participation of the ring sulfur in bonding towards Ni(II) and the non-participation of the same towards Zn(II) are notable features. Octahedral geometries are proposed for both complexes. Cyclic voltammetric studies revealed electrochemical polymerization of the free ligand (L) but not of the Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes.

KEY WORDS: Variable denticity, 3,4-bis(2-Iminomethylphenol)-2,2’:5,2’’-terthiophene, Octahedral, Ni(II) complex, Zn(II) complex, Voltammetric studies

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2011, 25(2), 221-231