A New Family of 3 d-4 f Bis-Calix[4]arene-Supported Clusters.

Calix[4]arenes are versatile ligands that, whilst also serving other purposes, can act as platforms for the synthesis of a wide range of 3 d, 4 f, and 3 d-4 f polymetallic clusters. The empirical metal ion binding rules established for calix[4]arene are closely mirrored by bis-calix[4]arene, a relatively new ligand in which two equivalents of the former are directly tethered at a methylene bridge position. The direct tethering within bis-calix[4]arene gives rise to some structural features that are related to calix[4]arene coordination chemistry, but the prevailing clusters have fascinating new topologies and coordination behaviors. Here, we present the synthesis of a family of new bis-calix[4]arene-supported 3 d-4 f clusters, as well as their structural characterization and magnetic properties. Comparison is drawn with calix[4]arene coordination chemistry, showing logical extension of common structural fragments and cluster capping behaviors upon moving to bis-calix[4]arene. This approach therefore holds great potential for tuning cluster formation and composition at a high level through subsequent ligand alteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]