Two-Step Relaxation in a Linear Tetranuclear Dysprosium(III) Aggregate Showing Single-Molecule Magnet Behavior

A well-defined two-step relaxation, described by the sum of two modified Debye functions, is observed in a new alkoxido-bridged linear tetranuclear Dy-III aggregate showing single-molecule magnet behavior with a remarkably large energy barrier. This compound represents a model molecular aggregate with a clear two-step relaxation evidenced by frequency-dependent susceptibility, which therefore may stimulate further investigations regarding the relaxation dynamics of lanthanide-based systems.