Construction of two lanthanide schiff base complexes: Chiral triple-decker structure and NIR luminescent response towards anions

Two 4f and 3d-4f complexes [Yb3L3(OAc)(3)] (1) and [Zn2NdL2(OAc)(3)] (2) were constructed from Schiff base ligand N,N'-bis(3-methoxysalicylidene)(4-methylphenylene)-1,2-diamine (H2L). 1 shows a chiral triple-decker structure with Yb3+ ions sandwiched between the alternating layers of Schiff base ligands, while 2 exhibits a cross structure with the Nd3+ ion clipped by two ZnL groups. Open 3D channel structures running along the a -axis are formed in the solid state of 1 and 2. Excited by ligand-centered absorption bands, 1 and 2 show typical NIR emission of Yb3+ and Nd3+, respectively. Interestingly, 2 exhibits lanthanide luminescent response towards anions, especially to CN- and OAc- at ppm level.

Automated summary

Two 4f and 3d-4f complexes were constructed from a Schiff base ligand and showed different structures with open 3D channel structures formed in the solid state. Excited by ligand-centered absorption bands, the complexes exhibited typical NIR emission of Yb3+ and Nd3+, with complex 2 also showing lanthanide luminescent response towards anions such as CN- and OAc- at ppm level.