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A photoactive two-dimensional metal-organic framework (2D MOF) [Zn(4-spy)(DCTP)] n ( 1 ) [where 4-spy = 4-styrylpyridine and H 2 DCTP = 2,5-dichloroterephthalic acid] undergoes photochemical [2 + 2] cycloaddition on UV irradiation to obtain three-dimensional (3D) MOF [Zn( rctt -4-ppcb)(DCTP)] n ( 2 ) [ rctt -4-ppcb = 1,3-bis(4'-pyridyl)-2,4-bis(phenyl)cyclobutane] in a single-crystal to single-crystal (SCSC) manner. This structural transformation leads to stronger halogen ··· halogen interaction that is well-corroborated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.

Hybridization of coordination polymers allows for combining two or more distinct structures into one material. Here, we explore the core/shell-type materials of Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) by heteroepitaxial growth and demonstrate how one phase structurally dominates the other. The volumetric ratio between the shell and core crystals determine the final structure of the hybrids. The outermost dominated the Na + ion insertion/extraction, illustrating how the hybridization can adjust the function of PBAs.

The catalytic performance of Ru-NAD-type complexes [Ru(tpy)(pbn)(CO)] 2+ ([1] 2+ ; tpy = 2,2';6',2″-terpyridine; pbn = 2-(pyridin-2-yl)benzo[b][1,5]naphthyridine) and the Ru-CO-bridged metallacycle [2] + was investigated in the context of the electrochemical reduction of CO 2 in H 2 O/CH 3 CN at room temperature. A controlled-potential electrolysis of [1] 2+ and [2] + afforded formate (HCOO - ) as the main product, under concomitant formation of minor amounts of CO and H 2 . Metallacycle [2] + showed a higher selectivity toward the formation of HCOO - than [1] 2+ (HCOO - /CO for [1] 2+ , 2.7; HCOO - /CO for [2] + , 7). The generation of HCOO - via a catalytic hydride transfer from the NADH-type ligands of [1] 2+ and [2] + to CO 2 was supported by the experimental results and a comparison with the reduction of CO 2 catalyzed by [Ru(tpy)(bpy)(CO)] 2+ under similar conditions. A mechanism for the catalytic reduction of CO 2 by [1] 2+ and [2] + was proposed based on the experimental evidence. The thus-obtained results may help to expand the field of NADH-assisted reduction reactions.

Cubic and highly porous [Mn(2-methylimidazolate) 2 ] (Mn-ZIF-8) was synthesized from [Mn(BH 4 ) 2 ·3THF]·NaBH 4 under an Ar atmosphere. The structure contains rare Mn 2+ -4N tetrahedral geometry and has larger cell parameters, resulting in 20% larger amounts of gas uptake compared with [Zn(2-methylimidazolate) 2 ]. A kinetically favored reaction using a reactive metal borohydride precursor is key for the construction of new metal-organic framework systems.

On-demand design of porous frameworks for selective capture of specific gas molecules, including toxic gas molecules such as nitric oxide (NO), is a very important theme in the research field of molecular porous materials. Herein, we report the achievement of highly selective NO adsorption through chemical doping in a framework (i.e., solid solution approach): the highly electron donating unit [Ru 2 (o-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 ] (o-OMePhCO 2 - = o-anisate) was transplanted into the structurally flexible chain framework [Ru 2 (4-Cl-2-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 (phz)] (0; 4-Cl-2-OMePhCO 2 - = 4-chloro-o-anisate and phz = phenazine) to obtain a series of doped compounds, [{Ru 2 (4-Cl-2-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 } 1-x {Ru 2 (o-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 } x (phz)] (x = 0.34, 0.44, 0.52, 0.70, 0.81, 0.87), with [Ru 2 (o-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 (phz)] (1) as x = 1. The original compound 1 was made purely from a "highly electron donating unit" but had no adsorption capability for gases because of its nonporosity. Meanwhile, the partial transplant of the electronically advantageous [Ru 2 (o-OMePhCO 2 ) 4 ] unit with x = 0.34-0.52 in 0 successfully enhanced the selective adsorption capability of NO in an identical structurally flexible framework; an uptake at 95 kPa that was 1.7-3 mol/[Ru 2 ] unit higher than that of the original 0 compound was achieved (121 K). The solid solution approach is an efficient means of designing purposeful porous frameworks.

Three Ru-CO complexes, [Ru(pbn) 2 (CO) 2 ] 2+ , [Ru(pbn) 2 (CO)(COOH)] + , [Ru(pbn) 2 (CO)(COO)] 0 [pbn = 2-(pyridin-2-yl)benzo[b]-1,5-naphthyridine], exist as equilibrium mixtures in aqueous solutions. Thermal decarboxylation of [Ru(pbn) 2 (CO)(COOH)] + and/or [Ru(pbn) 2 (CO)(COO)] 0 induces a two-electron reduction of pbn to form [Ru(pbn)(pbnHH)(CO)(OH 2 )] 2+ [pbnHH = 2-(pyridin-2-yl)-5,10-dihydrobenzo[b]-1,5-naphthyridine] in H 2 O.

The upbuilding of dirhodium tetracarboxylate paddlewheels into porous architectures is still challenging because of the inertness of equatorial carboxylates for ligand-exchange reaction. Here we demonstrate the synthesis of a new family of metal-organic cuboctahedra by connecting dirhodium units through 1,3-benzenedicarboxylate and assembling cuboctahedra as porous solids. Carbon monoxide and nitric oxide were strongly trapped in the internal cavity thanks to the strong affinity of unsaturated axial coordination sites of dirhodium centers.

Two new isomorphous three-dimensional porous coordination polymers, {[Cd(bpe)0.5(bdc)(H2O)]·EtOH}n (1) and {[Cd(bpe)0.5(bdc)(H2O)]·2H2O}n (2) [bpe = 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane, and H2bdc = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid], have been synthesized by altering the solvent media. Both structures contain one-dimensional channels filled with metal-bound water and guest solvent molecules, and desolvated frameworks show significant changes in structure. However, exposure to the solvent vapors (water and methanol) reverts the structure back to the as-synthesized structure, and thus, the reversible flexible nature of the structure was elucidated. The flexibility and permanent porosity were further reinforced from the CO2 adsorption profiles (195 and 273 K) that show stepwise uptake. Moreover, a high selectivity for O2 over N2 at 77 K was realized. The framework exhibits interesting solvent vapor adsorption behavior with dynamic structural transformation depending upon the size, polarity, and coordination ability of the solvent molecules. Further investigation was conducted by solid state (113)Cd nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy that unambiguously advocates the reversible transformation "pentagonal-bipyramidal CdO6N → octahedral CdO5N" geometry in the desolvated state. For the first time, (113)Cd NMR has been used as a probe of structural flexibility in a porous coordination polymer system.

The emergence of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as potential candidates to supplant existing adsorbent types in real-world applications has led to an explosive growth in the number of compounds available to researchers, as well as in the diversity of the metal salts and organic linkers from which they are derived. In this context, the use of carbonate-based precursors as metal sources is of interest due to their abundance in mineral deposits and their reaction chemistry with acids, resulting in just water and carbon dioxide as side products. Here, we have explored the use of calcium carbonate as a metal source and demonstrate its versatility as a precursor to several known frameworks, as well as a new flexible compound based on the 2,5-dihydroxybenzoquinone (H2dhbq) linker, Ca(dhbq)(H2O)2. Furthermore, inspired by the ubiquity and unique structures of biomineralized forms of calcium carbonate, we also present examples of the preparation of superstructures of Ca-based MOFs via the coordination replication technique. In all, the results confirm the suitability of carbonate-based metal sources for the preparation of MOFs and further expand upon the growing scope of coordination replication as a convenient strategy for the preparation of structuralized materials.

An NAD/NADH-functionalized ligand, benzo[b]pyrido[3,2-f][1,7]-phenanthroline (bpp), was newly synthesized. A Ru compound containing the bpp ligand, [Ru(bpp)(bpy)2](2+), underwent 2e(-) and 2H(+) reduction, generating the NADH form of the compound, [Ru(bppHH)(bpy)2](2+), in response to visible light irradiation in CH3CN/TEA/H2O (8/1/1). The UV-vis and fluorescent spectra of both [Ru(bpp)(bpy)2](2+) and [Ru(bppHH)(bpy)2](2+) resembled the spectra of [Ru(bpy)3](2+). Both complexes exhibited strong emission, with quantum yields of 0.086 and 0.031, respectively; values that are much higher than those obtained from the NAD/NADH-functionalized complexes [Ru(pbn)(bpy)2](2+) and [Ru(pbnHH)(bpy)2](2+) (pbn = (2-(2-pyridyl)benzo[b]-1.5-naphthyridine, pbnHH = hydrogenated form of pbn). The reduction potential of the bpp ligand in [Ru(bpp)(bpy)2](2+) (-1.28 V vs SCE) is much more negative than that of the pbn ligand in [Ru(pbn)(bpy)2](2+) (-0.74 V), although the oxidation potentials of bppHH and pbnHH are essentially equal (0.95 V). These results indicate that the electrochemical oxidation of the dihydropyridine moiety in the NADH-type ligand was independent of the π system, including the Ru polypyridyl framework. [Ru(bppHH)(bpy)2](2+) allowed the photoreduction of oxygen, generating H2O2 in 92% yield based on [Ru(bppHH)(bpy)2](2+). H2O2 production took place via singlet oxygen generated by the energy transfer from excited [Ru(bppHH)(bpy)2](2+) to triplet oxygen.

We propose and validate a simple strategy of vertex connection that can be used for framework design and pore size/type modulation to prepare a mother structure and another 10 highly porous isoreticular frameworks with unprecedented topology. Importantly, the potential accessible pore volumes (57-71%), pore sizes (6.8-11. 2 Å; 17.0-29.0 Å; 12.5-22.8 Å; 11.9-24.5 Å), and the pore shapes of this series of highly porous frameworks were simultaneously and systematically tuned. Interestingly, the pore size of IIa [Zn4O(L(2))2(BDC)0.5]{(CH3)2NH2} decreased a little less than that of IIc [Zn4O(L(2))2(2,6-NDC)0.5]{(CH3)2NH2}; however, its selectivity of CO2 toward CH4 increased by almost two times.

Protein crystals generally are stable solid protein assemblies. Certain protein crystals are suitable for use as nanovessels for immobilizing metal complexes. Here we report the preparation of ruthenium carbonyl-incorporated cross-linked hen egg white lysozyme crystals (Ru·CL-HEWL). Ru·CL-HEWL retains a Ru carbonyl moiety that can release CO, although a composite of Ru carbonyl-HEWL dissolved in buffer solution (Ru·HEWL) does not release CO. We found that treatment of cells with Ru·CL-HEWL significantly increased nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activity as a cellular response to CO. These results demonstrate that Ru·CL-HEWL has potential for use as an artificial extracellular scaffold suitable for transport and release of a gas molecule.

We developed a new route for synthesis of Cr-based porous coordination polymers (PCPs) with azole ligands and characterized the unique open structures by single-crystal X-ray studies and other spectroscopy techniques. Chromium-based PCPs have been prepared from azolate ligands 3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid (H2dmcpz) and 1,4-di(1H-tetrazole-5yl)benzene (H2BDT) by solvothermal reactions under an Ar atmosphere. [Cr3O(Hdmcpz)6(DMF)3]⊃DMF (1⊃DMF) is a coordination compound that forms a hydrogen-bonded porous network. [Cr3O(HBDT)2(BDT)Cl3)]⊃DMF (2⊃DMF) possesses a new type of trinuclear chromium μ3-O unit cluster and the novel topology of a Cr-based PCP with 700 m(2) g(-1) of Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area. [Cr(BDT)(DEF)]⊃DEF (3⊃DEF) is structurally flexible and reactive to O2 molecules because of the unsaturated Cr(2+) centers. This is the first report of a Cr-based PCP/metal-organic framework with noncarboxylate ligands and characterization by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.

The chemisorption of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on the Hofmann-like spin crossover porous coordination polymer (SCO-PCP) {Fe(pz)[Pt(CN)4]} has been investigated at room temperature. Thermal analysis and adsorption-desorption isotherms showed that ca. 1 mol of SO2 per mol of {Fe(pz)[Pt(CN)4]} was retained in the pores. Nevertheless, the SO2 was loosely attached to the walls of the host network and completely released in 24 h at 298 K. Single crystals of {Fe(pz)[Pt(CN)4]}·nSO2 (n ≈ 0.25) were grown in water solutions saturated with SO2, and its crystal structure was analyzed at 120 K. The SO2 molecule is coordinated to the Pt(II) ion through the sulfur atom ion, Pt-S = 2.585(4) Å. This coordination slightly stabilizes the low-spin state of the Fe(II) ions shifting the critical temperatures of the spin transition by 8-12 K. DFT calculations have been performed to rationalize these observations.

Herein, we report new porous coordination polymers (PCPs) via a facile synthetic approach called "in situ generation of functionality in the ligand". Upon a synthetic process of PCPs, a neutral (-CH2OH) or a cationic functionality (-CH2-[4,4'-bipyridine](+)) was generated on a isophthalate ligand from a reactive haloalkane (-CH2Br) moiety, affording two new PCPs. The PCPs have two-dimensional layered structures with large potential solvent-accessible voids for CO2 adsorption.

A family of new porous coordination polymers (PCPs) were prepared by the reaction of an acylamide modified ligand (H3L) and RE(NO)3·xH2O (RE = Y, La, Ce, Nd, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, and Tm). PXRD and single-crystal X-ray analyses of them revealed that, besides the La PCP, all other rare earth members gave isomorphous structures. The two types of structural toplogies obtained, although similar, differ in their alignment of acylamide functional groups and structural flexibility. Adsorption experiments and in situ DRIFT spectra showed that rigid frameworks have the typical microporous behavior and poor selective capture of CO2 over C2H4 and C2H6; however, the unique La-PCP with structural flexibility and close-packed acylamide groups has a high selective capture of CO2 with respect to C2H6 or C2H4 at 273 K, especially at the ambient pressure area (0.1-1 bar).

We have synthesized four porous coordination polymers (PCPs) using Zn(2+), 4,4'-sulfonyldibenzoate (sdb), and four types of dinitrogen linker ligands, 1,4-diazabicyclo[2,2,2]octane (dabco), 1,4-bis(4-pyridyl)benzene (bpb), 3,6-bis(4-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (bpt), and 4,4'-bipyridyl (bpy). The bent sdb ligands form a rhombic space connected by zinc paddle-wheel units to form a one-dimensional double chain, and each dinitrogen ligand linked the one-dimensional double chains. There are different assembled structures of two-dimensional sheets with the same connectivities between Zn(2+) and the organic ligands. [Zn2(sdb)2(dabco)]n (1) has a noninterpenetrated and noninterdigitated structure, [Zn2(sdb)2(bpb)]n (2) and [Zn2(sdb)2(bpt)]n (3) have interdigitated structures, and [Zn2(sdb)2(bpy)]n (4) has an interpenetrated structure. The length of the dinitrogen ligands dominated their assembled structures and flexibility, which influence the adsorption properties. The flexible frameworks of 2 and 3 provide different stepwise adsorption behaviors for CO2, CH4, C2H6, and C2H4 affected by their pore diameters and the properties of the gases. Their different adsorption properties were revealed by IR spectroscopy and X-ray analysis under a gas atmosphere. The framework of 4 possesses less flexibility and a smaller void space than the others and a negligible amount of CH4 was adsorbed; however, 4 can adsorb either C2H6 or C2H4 through the gate-opening phenomenon. Measurement of the solid-state (2)H NMR was also carried out to investigate the relationship between the framework structure and the dynamics of bpy with regard to the lower flexibility of 4. We have demonstrated a strategy to control the pore size and assembled structures toward selective adsorption properties of PCPs.

High selectivity and low-energy regeneration for adsorption of CO(2) gas were achieved concurrently in a two-dimensional Cu(II) porous coordination polymer, [Cu(PF(6))(2)(4,4'-bpy)(2)](n) (4,4'-bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine), containing inorganic fluorinated PF(6)(-) anions that can act as moderate interaction sites for CO(2) molecules.

Starting with the same precursors, pyridine-2,3-dicarboxylate (pyrdc) and 4,4'-bipyridyl (bipy), two 3D porous coordination polymers, {[Cu(bipy)(0.5)(pyrdc)]·3H(2)O} (1) and {[Cu(bipy)(0.5)(pyrdc)]·0.5bipy·3H(2)O} (2), have been synthesized by changing the solvent system from MeOH/H(2)O to EtOH/H(2)O. Single-crystal structure analysis revealed that 1 and 2 are supramolecular isomers with 3D pillared-layer structures having 1D channel systems. Isomer 1 has a flexible structure and shows gated adsorption behavior, while framework 2 has a rigid backbone and exhibits the adsorption properties of typical microporous materials.

The synthesis and characterization of [Ba(HBTB)] is reported. This is the first porous framework synthesized with barium using carboxylate ligands. The framework has robust microporous character (Langmuir surface area of 879 m(2) g(-1)) and possesses unsaturated metal sites when fully desolvated.

Liquid crystalline (LC) platinum(II) complexes with 1,2-thiophenolato and 1,2-benzendithiolato have been newly synthesized and investigated by spectroscopy together with the catecholato analogue. The variations in coordinating atoms (O or S or O/S mixed) lead to significant modulation in electrochemical properties in solution and absorption and emission properties of the complexes both in solution media and in the condensed phases. The asymmetric, polar mesogens/chromophores consisting of Pt(II), redox-active ligands, and alkyl-substituted bipyridine commonly play important roles not only in stabilizing the columnar LC phases, but also in fluctuations of the ground state energies. A key finding of the present work is the chromic properties of LC complexes induced by the interplay of self-association of the mesogens/chromophores and their fluctuating properties.

A series of TCNQ-dianion-based porous coordination polymers [M(TCNQ)bpy] (M = Fe, Zn, Mn, Co, Cd) have been synthesized and characterized. The synthesis reactions of these compounds are promoted by the addition of ascorbic acid, which is the key to obtaining a high yield. They form almost identical three-dimensional pillared layer structures with the M-TCNQ two-dimensional layers linked by bpy pillar ligands. The electronic properties of these compounds vary depending on the constitutional metal ions and guest molecules. We found that the electronic interaction between metal ions and TCNQ moieties in the frameworks strongly impacted the electronic properties of the compounds.

Hybridization of metal complexes and protein scaffolds is an important subject in bioinorganic chemistry and materials science. Efforts to provide non-natural functions to proteins will likely lead to advances in development of catalysts, sensors, and so on. Mechanistic investigations of the process of binding of metal complexes within protein scaffolds and characterization of the resulting coordination structures will help us to design and control coordination structures of metal complexes for construction of hybrid proteins containing metal complexes. In this work, the processes of accumulation and incorporation of organometallic palladium complexes within the cage of the iron storage protein apo-ferritin (apo-Fr) are elucidated by analysis of X-ray crystal structures of apo-Fr and selected mutants thereof, in the presence of the metal complexes. The crystal structure of apo-Fr containing Pd(allyl) (allyl = eta(3)-C(3)H(5)) complexes shows that thiolato-bridged dinuclear Pd(allyl) complexes are formed at two binding sites within the cage of apo-Fr. The crystal structures of apo-Fr and its Cys- and His-deletion mutants containing Pd(allyl) complexes indicate that Cys126 accelerates the incorporation of Pd(allyl) complexes into the cage. In addition, Cys48 and Cys126 are essential for accumulation of Pd(allyl) complexes and stabilizing the square planar coordination structure.

Solvothermal reactions of cobalt acetate, alkali metal hydroxide, and isophthalic acid (H(2)ipa) in H(2)O/alcohol produce five new three-dimensional (3D) heterometallic carboxylate frameworks, namely, [Na(2)Co(ipa)(2)(MeOH)(2)](n) (1), [Na(2)Co(ipa)(2)(EtOH)(2)](n) (2), [Na(2)Co(ipa)(2)(H(2)O)(EtOH)](n) (3), [Li(2)Co(ipa)(2)(EtOH)](n) (4), and {[Li(2)Co(ipa)(2)(H(2)O)].H(2)O}(n) (5). Compounds 1-5 are all based on anionic [Co(ipa)(2)](n) square grids, which are linked by alkali metal ions in various manners to generate closely related but quite different 3D architectures. In addition to the carboxylate oxygen donors of the anionic [Co(ipa)(2)](n) square grids, the alkali metal ions are also coordinated by the MeOH, EtOH, or H(2)O ligands. The prototypical compound 1 shows interesting solid-state structural transformations and sorption properties. The coordinated MeOH molecules in 1 can be easily substituted by moist H(2)O, accompanying a structural transformation from the chiral phase 1 to centrosymmetric phase 3. Further, thermal liberation of all MeOH ligands causes significant structural change and gives rise to a non-porous framework [CoNa(2)(ipa)(2)](n) (1'), which adsorbs MeOH, EtOH, and MeCN but not acetone based on the sizes of solvent molecules. Moreover, 1' can also selectively absorb CO(2) over N(2), H(2), and C(2)H(2), demonstrating the importance of oxophilic Na(I) ion in controlling the gate-opening behavior.

Two different three-dimensional interpenetrating metal-organic frameworks, {[Co(bpe)(muco)](DMF)(H 2O)} n ( 1) and {[Co(bpe)(muco)(H 2O) 2].4(H 2O)} n ( 2) [bpe = 4,4'-bipyridyl ethylene, H 2-muco = trans,trans-muconic acid, DMF = dimethyl formamide] have been co-crystallized in one-pot reaction. This work offers some insights into the intricacy of designing coordination polymers with variable interpenetration, showing new modes of entanglements. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses reveal that the compound 1 has a highly distorted cubic (alpha-Po) net with 2-fold interpenetrated structures while compound 2 displays a 3-fold interpenetrating net-work with an unprecedented 6 (6) topology which is different from other well-known 4-connected nets such as diamond or hexagonal diamond. Despite varied interpenetrations, both compounds retain open channels, filled with aggregated guest solvent molecules. As far as the ratios of Co/muco/bpe are concerned, these two complexes can be considered as supramolecular isomers. Formation of a particular isomer in major quantity can be obtained by varying the countercation of the muconate salt in different solvents, by layering, and by changing the order of the components.

The solvatochromic indicator [Cu(acac)(tmen)(H 2O)].PF 6 ( 1.H 2O) has been synthesized and crystallographically characterized. 1.H 2O binds an H 2O molecule at the Cu(II) axial site, while the PF 6 (-) anion is coordination free. The binding properties of [Cu(PF 6)(acac)(tmen)] ( 1) and [Cu(BF 4)(acac)(tmen)] ( 2) have been investigated in solution and the solid state. The donor number of the PF 6 (-) anion (DN PF6) was determined from the UV-vis spectra of 1 in 1,2-dichloroethane. The value of DN PF6 of the PF 6 (-) anion is slightly larger than that of the tetraphenylborate anion (BPh 4 (-)), which is known as a noncoordinating anion. In the solid state, 1 and 2 reversibly bind and release H 2O molecules at the Cu(II) axial sites. The coordinated H 2O molecules in 2 are more easily removed than those in 1 because of the strong Lewis basicity of the BF 4 (-) anion compared to the PF 6 (-) ion. The lower melting point of 1 versus 2 is attributed to the loose binding of the PF 6 (-) anions to the Cu(II) centers, which induces the dynamic nature of the crystal.

Eighteen trinuclear NiII2LnIII complexes of 2,6-di(acetoacetyl)pyridine (H2L) (Ln=La-Lu except for Pm) were prepared by a "one-pot reaction" of H2L, Ni(NO3)2.6H2O, and Ln(NO3)3.nH2O in methanol. X-ray crystallographic studies indicate that two L2- ligands sandwich two NiII ions with the terminal 1,3-diketonate sites and one LnIII ion with the central 2,6-diacylpyridine site, forming the trinuclear [Ni2Ln(L)2] core of a linear NiLnNi structure. The terminal Ni assumes a six-coordinate geometry together with methanol or water molecules, and the central Ln assumes a 10-coordinate geometry together with two or three nitrate ions. The [Ni2Ln(L)2] core is essentially coplanar for large Ln ions (La, Ce, Pr, Nd) but shows a distortion with respect to the two L2- ligands for smaller Ln ions. Magnetic studies for the Ni2Ln complexes of diamagnetic LaIII and LuIII indicate an antiferromagnetic interaction between the terminal NiII ions. A magnetic analysis of the Ni2Gd complex based on the isotropic Heisenberg model indicates a ferromagnetic interaction between the adjacent NiII and GdIII ions and an antiferromagnetic interaction between the terminal NiII ions. The magnetic properties of other Ni2Ln complexes were studied on the basis of a numerical approach with the Ni2La complex and analogous Zn2Ln complexes, and they indicated that the NiII-LnIII interaction is weakly antiferromagnetic for Ln=Ce, Pr, and Nd and ferromagnetic for Ln=Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, and Er.

A series of guest-binding Cu(II) coordination polymers, {[Cu(bpetha)2(acetone)2].2PF6}n (bpetha = 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane) (1), {[Cu(bpetha)2(DMF)2].2PF6}n (2), {[Cu(bpetha)(2)(MeCN)(2)].2PF6.2MeCN}n (3), {[Cu(bpetha)2(H2O)2].2PF6.3THF.2H2O}n (4), {[Cu(bpetha)2(H2O)2].2PF6.3dioxane}n (5), and {[Cu(bpetha)2(H2O)2].2PF6.2-PrOH.2H2O}n (6), have been synthesized and crystallographically characterized. Their framework stabilities and guest-exchange properties have also been investigated. All compounds form a similar framework motif, a "double chain", in which the bpetha ligands bridge Cu(II) centers to form 1-D [Cu(bpetha)2]n double chains. A variety of Lewis base guest molecules, such as H2O, acetone, DMF, MeCN, THF, dioxane, and 2-PrOH, are incorporated into the assembly of the 1-D double chains. These chains flexibly change their forms of assembly in a guest-dependent manner. Interestingly, acetone, DMF, and MeCN guests with a carbonyl or cyanide group coordinate directly to the axial sites of the Cu(II) centers; in contrast, THF, dioxane, and 2-PrOH guests with an ether or alcohol group are incorporated into the frameworks not via coordination bonds but via weak interactions (hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces). This selectivity is probably due to steric effects at coordinated oxygen or nitrogen atoms of the guests. Crystal-to-crystal transformations triggered by guests are observed, during which guests coordinated to the Cu(II) axial sites are readily removed and replaced by other guests.

Ni(II) coordination polymers with a 4,4'-azobis(pyridine) (azpy) ligand, {[Ni2(NCX)4(azpy)4].G}n (X = S, G (guest molecule) = MeOH (1.MeOH); X = S, G = EtOH (1.EtOH); X = S, G = H2O (1.H2O); X = S, G = no guest (1); X = Se, G = MeOH (2.MeOH); X = Se, G = H2O (2.H2O); X = Se, G = no guest (2)), have been synthesized and structurally characterized with their porosity. These compounds have one-dimensional periodic ultramicropores that contain the small guest molecules, H2O, MeOH, or EtOH, whose hydroxy groups interact with the S or Se atoms of isothiocyanate or isoselenocyanate, respectively, via -S(Se)...HO- hydrogen bonds. Although the molecular dimensions of the MeOH guest are considerably larger than the window size of the ultramicropore, 1.MeOH and 2.MeOH easily release their guest molecules without decomposition of the framework to form 1 and 2 without any guest molecules. This shows that 1 and 2 have dynamic ultramicropores constructed from the interpenetrating framework. The guest desorption experiments using 1.MeOH and 1.EtOH reveal that the difference in the desorption behavior is due to van der Waals interactions that depend on the molecular shape of the guest molecule in the ultramicropores and/or an entrance blocking effect that depends on the minimum dimensions of the guest molecule for the pore windows. A marked difference in the N2 and CH4 adsorption isotherms was observed and is associated with the strength of the host-guest interaction.

The combination of Ni2+, dipropylenetriamine (dipn), and [Cr(CN)6]3- affords the cyanide-bridged bimetallic assembly, [Ni(dipn)]3[Cr(CN)6]2.3H2O (1). This compound crystallizes in cubic space group Pa, with a = b = c = 20.9742(7) A and Z = 8. A three-dimensional network is constructed on the basis of a Cr8Ni12 cubane unit formed by an alternate array of [Cr(CN)6]3- and [Ni(dipn)]2+ units through Cr-CN-Ni-NC-Cr edges. Cryomagnetic studies reveal a ferromagnetic interaction between Cr(III) and Ni(II) ions and a long-range ferromagnetic ordering below 42 K with very small coercive field. To the best of our knowledge, this compound is the first "complete ferromagnet" providing three-dimensional ferromagnetic interaction through a three-dimensional bridging structure that is based on a cubic unit among general metal-oxide and molecule-based magnets. Magnetooptical studies demonstrate a strong correlation between magnetic and optical properties.

Reversible vapochromic behavior of a porous copper(II) coordination polymer {[Cu(bhnq)(THF)2](THF)}n (1; THF = tetrahydrofuran) constructed from a flexible hingelike ligand H2bhnq [2,2'-bis(3-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone)] has been investigated by adsorption measurements. The isotherms show large hysteretic and stepwise profiles, suggesting the occurrence of the guest-induced framework transformation. The dynamic coil-like behavior of 1 can be controlled through the change of the hydrogen-bonding interactions caused by the reversible and selective incorporation of guest molecules.

Chemical oxidation of [Ru2(6+)(3,6-DTBCat)4]2- affords [n-Bu4N][Ru2(3,6-DTBDiox)4].acetone (2.acetone). The oxidized species was characterized by X-ray crystallographic analysis and EPR, and the delocalization of the unpaired electron over the entire molecule was indicated. This example showed that the utilization of redox-active ligands into a Ru2 complex expanded the degree of freedom in the electronic structure. DFT calculations support this view, and the spin population was estimated to be approximately 18% and 82% for the Ru2 core and the four dioxolene ligands, respectively.

To explore the relationships between the structures of ligands and their complexes, we have synthesized and characterized a series of metal complexes with two structurally related ligands, 9-acridinecarboxylic acid (HL(1)) and 4-quinolinecarboxylate acid (HL(2)), [Cu(2)(mu(2)-OMe)(2)(L(1))(2)(H(2)O)(0.69)](n) 1, [Cu(2)(L(1))(4)(CH(3)OH)(2)] 2, [Cu(3)(L(1))(6)(CH(3)OH)(6)].3H(2)O 3, [Mn(3)(L(1))(6)(CH(3)OH)(6)].3H(2)O 4, [Co(3)(L(1))(6)(CH(3)OH)(6)].3H(2)O 5, [Cu(L(2))(2)](n) 6, [Mn(L(2))(2)(H(2)O)](n) 7, and [Co(L(2))(2)(H(2)O)](n) 8. 1 is a three-dimensional (3D) polymer with an interpenetrating NbO type network showing one-dimensional (1D) channels, whereas 2 and 3 take bi- and trinuclear structures, respectively, because of the differences in basicity of the reaction systems in preparing the three complexes. 4 and 5 have trinuclear structures similar to that of 3. In 1-5, ligand L(1) performs different coordination modes with N,O-bridging in 1 and O,O'-bridging in 2-5, and the metal ions also show different coordination geometries: square planar in 1, square pyramidal in 2, and octahedral in 3-5. 6 has a two-dimensional structure containing (4,4) grids in which L(2) adopts the N,O-bridging mode and the Cu(II) center takes square planar geometry. 7 and 8 are isostructural complexes showing 1D chain structures, with L(2) adopting the O,O-bridging mode. In addition, the intermolecular O-H...N hydrogen bonds and pi-pi stacking interactions further extend the complexes (except 1 and 6), forming 3D structures. The magnetic properties of 2-7 have been investigated and discussed in detail.

Two novel coordination polymers of Cu(II), viz. [Cu(bipy)(1,4-napdc)(H2O)2]n and {[Cu(bpe)1.5(1,4-napdc)](H2O)}n (bipy=4,4'-bipyridine; bpe=1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane; 1,4-napdc2-=1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylate), have been synthesized and structurally characterized by changing only the pillar motifs. Both the compounds crystallize by slow evaporation from the ammoniacal solution of the as-synthesized solid. Framework 1 crystallizes in monoclinic crystal system, space group P2/n (No. 13), with a=11.028(19) A, b=11.16(3) A, c=7.678(13) A, beta=103.30(5) degrees, and Z=2. Framework 2 crystallizes in triclinic system, space group, P (No. 2), a=10.613(4) A, b=10.828(10) A, c=13.333(9) A, alpha=85.25(9) degrees, beta=82.59(6) degrees, gamma=60.37(5) degrees, and Z=2. The structure determination reveals that has a 2D network based on rectangular grids, where each Cu(II) is in 4+2 coordination mode. The 2D networks stacked in a staggered manner through the pi-pi interaction to form a 3D supramolecular network. In the case of, a {Cu(bpe)1.5}n ladder connected by 1,4-napdc2- results a 2D cuboidal bilayer network and each bilayer network is interlocked by two adjacent identical network (upper and lower) forming 3-fold interpenetrated 3D framework with small channel along the c-axis, which accommodates two water molecules. The TGA and XRPD measurements reveal that both the frameworks are stable after dehydration. Adsorption measurements (N2, CO2, and different solvents, like H2O, MeOH, etc.) were carried out for both frameworks. Framework shows type-II sorption profile with N2 in contrast to H2O and MeOH, which are chemisorbed in the framework. In case of, only H2O molecules can diffuse into the micropore, whereas N2, CO2, and MeOH cannot be adsorbed, as corroborated by the smaller channel aperture. The low-temperature (300-2 K) magnetic measurement of and reveals that both are weakly antiferromagnetically coupled (J=-1.85 cm-1, g=2.02; J=-0.153 cm-1, g=2.07), which is correlated by the magnetic pathway to the corresponding structure.

The molecular structures and physicochemical properties of diruthenium complexes with ligand-unsupported Ru-Ru bonds, generally formulated as [A2{Ru2(DTBCat)4}] (DTB = 3,5- or 3,6-di-tert-butyl; Cat(2-) = catecholate), were studied in detail by changing the countercations. First, the binding structures of the cations in a family of [{A(DME)n}2{Ru2(3,5-DTBCat)4}] (n = 2 for A+ = Li+ and Na+ and n = 1 for A+ = K+ and Rb+) were systematically examined to reveal the effects of the cations on the molecular structures and electrochemical properties. Second, the complex (n-Bu4N)2[Ru2(3,6-DTBCat)4] with a cation-free structure was synthesized using tetra-n-butylammonium cations. The complex clearly demonstrates first that the ligand-unsupported Ru-Ru bonds are essentially stabilized by the dianionic nature of the catecholate derivatives without any other bridging or supporting species. In contrast, the redox potentials and absorption spectra of the complexes can sensitively respond to the countercations depending upon the polarity of the solvents.

Coordination compounds with a 4,4'-azobis(pyridine) (azpy) ligand, {[M2(azpy)6(H2O)5] x 4PF6 x azpy x H2O}n (M = Ni(II) (1) or Co(II) (2)) (0-dimensional (0-D) dimer), {[Zn(azpy)3(H2O)2] x 2PF6 x 2azpy x 4H2O}n (3) (1-dimensional (1-D) fishbone-type chain), {[Ag(azpy)] x PF6}n (4) (1-D linear chain), {[Mn(NCS)2(azpy)2] x azpy}n (5) (2-dimensional (2-D) grid sheet), and {[Ni(NCS)2(azpy)2] x 3toluene}n (6) (2-D grid sheet), were synthesized and structurally characterized. Compounds 1 and 2 have a 0-D dimer motif, in which one M(II) (M(II) = Ni(II) or Co(II)) coordination site is shared by unidentate azpy and H2O ligands, each with half-occupancy, i.e., exhibiting static disorder. Compounds 3 and 4 afford 1-D fishbone-type and 1-D linear chain motifs, respectively. Azpy mediates pi-pi and pi-p interactions between these low-dimensional structures. Compounds 5 and 6 possess a 2-D grid sheet motif. These sheets assemble to form microporous frameworks that incorporate aromatic guests, such as coordination-free azpy (5) and toluene (6). There exist not only pi-pi and pi-p interactions but also CH-pi interactions between the framework azpy ligands and guests. It should be noted that the azpy ligand is a good candidate for the construction of new assembling systems of coordination compounds through its aromatic interactions.

A family of diruthenium complexes with ligand-unsupported Ru-Ru bonds has been systematically synthesized, and their crystal structures and physical properties have been examined. A simple, useful reaction between Ru2(OAc)4Cl (OAc- = acetate) and catechol derivatives in the presence of bases afforded a variety of diruthenium complexes, generally formulated as [Na(n){Ru2(R4Cat)4}] (n = 2 or 3; R4 = -F4, -Cl4, -Br4, -H4, -3,5-di-t-Bu, and -3,6-di-t-Bu; Cat(2-) = catecholate). The most characteristic feature of the complexes is the formation of short ligand-unsupported Ru-Ru bonds (2.140-2.273 A). These comprehensive studies were carried out to evaluate the effects of the oxidation states and the substituents governing the molecular structures and physicochemical properties. The Ru-Ru bond distances, rotational conformations, and bending structures of the complexes were successfully varied. The results presented in this manuscript clearly demonstrate that the complexes with ligand-unsupported Ru-Ru bonds can sensitively respond to redox reactions and ligand substituents on the basis of the greater degree of freedom in their molecular structures.

By utilizing the novel metalloligand l(Cu), [Cu(2,4-pydca)(2)](2)(-) (2,4-pydca(2)(-) = pyridine-2,4-dicarboxylate), which possesses two kinds of coordination groups, selective bond formation with the series of the first-period transition metal ions (Mn(ii), Fe(ii), Co(ii), Cu(ii), and Zn(ii)) has been accomplished. depending on the coordination mode of 4-carboxylate with Co(ii), Cu(ii), and Zn(ii) ions, L(Cu) forms a one-dimensional (1-d) assembly with a repeating motif of [-M-O(2)C-(py)N-Cu-N(py)-Co(2)-]: {[ZnL(Cu)(H(2)O)(3)(DMF)].DMF}(N)() (2), [ZnL(Cu)(H(2)O)(2)(MeOH)(2)](N)() (3), and {[ML(Cu)(H(2)O)(4)].2H(2)O}(N)() (M = Co (4), Cu (5), Zn (6)). the use of a terminal ligand of 2,2'-bipyridine (2,2'-bpy), in addition to the cu(ii) ion, gives a zigzag 1-d assembly with the similar repeating unit as 4-6: {[Cu(2,2'-bpy)L(Cu)].3H(2)O}(N)() (9). on the other hand, for Mn(ii) and Fe(ii) ions, L(Cu) shows a 2-carboxylate bridging mode to form an another 1-d assembly with a repeating motif of [-M-O-C-O-CU-O-C-O-]: [ML(Cu)(H(2)O)(4)](N)() (M = Mn (7), Fe (8)). this selectivity is related to the strength of lewis basicity and the electrostatic effect of L(Cu) and the irving-williams order on the present metal ions. according to their bridging modes, a variety of magnetic properties are obtained: 4, 5, and 9, which have the 4-carboxypyridinate bridge between magnetic centers, have weak antiferromagnetic interaction, whereas 7 and 8 with the carboxylate bridge between magnetic centers reveal 1-d ferromagnetic behavior (Cu(II)-M(II); M(II) = Mn(II), J/k(B) = 0.69 K for 7; M(II) = Fe(II), J/k(B) = 0.71 K for 8).

Prussian blue (PB) nanoparticles protected by organic polymers such as poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) were prepared. Different experimental conditions (concentrations of Fe ions and feed ratios of Fe to the polymers) have been investigated to control the size of the PB nanoparticles. For example, the averaged dimensions of the PB nanoparticles were tuned from 12 to 27 nm by use of PVP in the different conditions. Addition of PDDA produced the PB nanoparticles with very small dimensions (5-8 nm) by an effective electrostatic interaction. We found that the surface environments of the PB nanoparticles affect the inherent properties of PB. The shifts of charge transfer (CT) absorptions from Fe(2+) to Fe(3+) in the PB nanoparticles resulted from the surface-protecting polymers. Especially, the PB nanoparticles with the PVP protection show high solubility in a variety of organic solvents and a solvent-dependent CT absorption. Measurement of the magnetic properties of the PB nanoparticles showed unprecedented size-dependency, surface effect, and superparamagnetic properties.

A new three-dimensional (3-D) jungle-gym-like open metal-organic framework has been synthesized from a two-dimensional (2-D) layer compound using a heterogeneous pillar insertion reaction. Both the starting 2-D layer and the resulting 3-D open compounds have been characterized using X-ray crystallography.

A one-pot reaction of a cationic diruthenium complex, [Ru(2)(II,III)(O(2)CCH(3))(4)(THF)(2)](BF(4)), with arylcarboxylic acids, ArCO(2)H, (PhCO(2)H = benzoic acid, NapCO(2)H = 1-naphthoic acid, AntCO(2)H = 9-anthracenecarboxylic acid) in NDMA (NDMA = N,N-dimethylaniline) has led to isolation of neutral paddlewheel-type diruthenium complexes, [Ru(II)(2)(O(2)CAr)(4)(THF)(2)] (Ar = Ph (1), Nap (2), Ant (3)). Paramagnetic variable temperature (VT) (1)H NMR studies and GC-MS studies show that the reaction consists of two steps: a one-electron reduction of the Ru(2) core by NDMA and a simple carboxylate-exchange reaction. All compounds 1-3 were structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography. While the structural features of the Ru(2) core are very similar in all the compounds, the dihedral angles between the carboxylate plane and the aromatic ring are larger with the expanding of aryl groups from phenyl to anthracene. The effect of pi-pi stacking leads to the formation of a 1-D chain structure in compound 3, whereas compounds 1 and 2 are fully isolated from each other. The electrochemical measurements show that the quasireversible one-electron oxidation step is observed at +0.06, +0.09, and +0.17 V (vs Ag/Ag(+)) for 1-3, respectively, assigned to the Ru(II)(2)/Ru(II,III)(2) redox couple. These potentials are found to demonstrate a linear relationship with the substituent constants for aryl compounds,.

The formation, crystal structures, and properties of a series of three-dimensional (3-D) Cu(II) coordination polymers, [[Cu(L)2(H2O)2](PF6)2(H2O)(1.25)]n (1), [[CuL(N3)2](H2O)(1.5)]n (2), and [[CuL(H2O)(SO4)](H2O)2]n (3), with an angular bridging ligand 2,5-bis(4-pyridyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole (L) are reported. Complex 1 crystallizes in the tetragonal I4(1)/a space group (a = b = 13.462(2) A, c = 46.47(1) A, Z = 8), complex 2 in the orthorhombic Pna2(1) space group (a = 6.379(2) A, b = 10.060(3) A, c = 27.232(9) A, Z = 4), and complex 3 in the orthorhombic P2(1)2(1)2(1) space group (a = 5.510(2) A, b = 10.576(4) A, c = 28.34(1) A, Z = 4). Different polymeric frameworks are obtained by only varying the counterions. These include the 2-fold interpenetrated diamondoid structure of 1, the acentric alpha-Po network of 2, and the chiral open framework of 3 with (6(3)).(6(9).8) topology. The interesting anion-exchange, porous, and magnetic properties of these coordination supramolecules have been investigated in detail.

Two new copper(II) compounds of chloranilate and 2,2':6',2' '-terpyridine have been synthesized, and the structures have been solved by the single-crystal X-ray diffraction method. The crystal structure of [[Cu(2)(CA)(terpy)(2)][Cu(CA)(2)]](n)(1), where H(2)CA = chloranilic acid and terpy = 2,2':6',2' '-terpyridine, consists of two modules, the dimer unit [Cu(2)(CA)(terpy)(2)](2+) and the anionic mononuclear unit [Cu(CA)(2)](2)(-), forming an alternated chain. The chain is stabilized by semicoordinating and additional but efficient secondary bonding interactions. The crystal structure of [[Cu(2)(CA)(terpy)(2)(dmso)(2)][Cu(CA)(2)(dmso)(2)](EtOH)](n)(2), where dmso = dimethyl sulfoxide, consists of solvent molecules and two discrete modules, the dimer unit [Cu(2)(CA)(terpy)(2)(dmso)(2)](2+) and the anionic mononuclear unit [Cu(CA)(2)(dmso)(2)](2)(-). The dimer units form a layer by secondary bonding interactions, and the monomer units and ethanol molecules are introduced between the layers. The magnetic properties of 1 and 2 have been investigated in the temperature range 2.0-300 K. A weak ferromagnetic interaction was observed in 1, J(a) = 2.36 cm(-)(1) and zJ(b) = -0.68 cm(-)(1) while no exchange coupling was observed in 2.

A fascinating 3D pseudo-polyrotaxane architecture with 1D polymeric [Ag(bpp)](n) chains penetrating 2D (6,3) [Ag(2)(bpp)(2)(ox)](n) sheets and a 3D coordination network constructed with 2D infinite [Ag(ppa)](n) beta-sheetlike layers pillared by ox ligands (bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane; ppa = N-(4-pyridinylmethyl)-4-pyridinecarboxamide; ox = oxalate) have been prepared by utilizing flexible pyridyl-type ligands and have been crystallographically characterized. Crystal data for 1: monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 7.619(2) A, b = 19.781(4) A, c = 26.799(5) A, beta = 94.720(10) degrees, U = 4025.2(15) A(3), and Z = 4. Crystal data for 2: monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 28.947(8) A, b = 8.617(3) A, c = 16.307(6) A, beta =121.07(1) degrees, U = 3484(2) A(3), and Z = 4.

The treatment of Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(3) (SQ = o-semiquinonate; X = Cl and Br) with acetonitrile affords trans-Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(X(4)Cat)(CH(3)CN)(2) (X = Cl (1) and Br (2)). In the presence of 2,2'-bipyridine (bpy) or 3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthrene (tmphen), the reaction affords Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(X(4)Cat)(bpy).nCH(3)CN (X = Cl, n = 1 (3); X = Br, n = 0.5 (4)) or Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(X(4)Cat)(tmphen) (X = Cl (5) and Br (6)), respectively. All of the complexes show a ligand-based mixed-valence (LBMV) state with SQ and Cat ligands. The LBMV state was confirmed by the presence of the interligand intervalence charge-transfer band. Spectroscopic studies in several solvent media demonstrate that the ligand dissociation included in the conversion of Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(3) to 1-6 occurs only in solvents with relatively high polarity. On the basis of these results, the effects of solvent media were examined and an equilibrium, Cr(III)(X(4)SQ)(3) <--> Cr(III)(X(4)BQ)(X(4)SQ)(X(4)Cat) (BQ = o-benzoquinone), is proposed by assuming an interligand electron transfer induced by solvent polarity.

Metal-metal bonded Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) and Ru(3.5+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3.5+) (R = CH(3) and CH(3)CH(2)) compounds with tetrachlorocatecholate (Cl(4)Cat) have been synthesized in the corresponding alcohol, MeOH and EtOH, from a nonbridged Ru(2+)-Ru(3+) compound, Na(3)[Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(4)(THF)].3H(2)O.7THF (1). In alcohol solvents, compound 1 is continuously oxidized by oxygen to form Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) and Ru(3.5+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3.5+) species. The presence of a characteristic countercation leads to selective isolation of either Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) or Ru(3.5+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3.5+) as a stable adduct species. In methanol, Ph(4)PCl and dibenzo-18-crown-6-ether afford Ru(3+)(mu-OMe)(2)Ru(3+) species, [A](2)[Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(4)(mu-OMe)(2)Na(2)(MeOH)(6)] ([A](+) = Ph(4)P(+) (2), [Na(dibenzo-18-crown-6)(H(2)O)(MeOH)](+) (3)), while benzo-15-crown-5-ether provides a Ru(3.5+)(mu-OMe)(2)Ru(3.5+) species, [Na(benzo-15-crown-5)(2)][Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(4)(mu-OMe)(2)Na(2)(MeOH)(6)] (4). The air oxidation of 1 in a MeOH/EtOH mixed solvent (1:1 v/v) containing benzo-15-crown-5-ether provides a Ru(3.5+)(mu-OMe)(2)Ru(3.5+) species, [Na(benzo-15-crown-5)(H(2)O)][Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(2)(mu-OMe)(2)Na(2)(EtOH)(2)(H(2)O)(2)(MeOH)(2)].(benzo-15-crown-5) (5). Similarly, the oxidation of 1 in ethanol with Ph(4)PCl provides a Ru(3.5+)(mu-OEt)(2)Ru(3.5+) species, (Ph(4)P)[Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(4)(mu-OEt)(2)Na(2)(EtOH)(6)] (7). A selective formation of a Ru(3+)(mu-OEt)(2)Ru(3+) species, (Ph(4)P)(2)[Ru(2)(Cl(4)Cat)(4)(mu-OEt)(2)Na(2)(EtOH)(2)(H(2)O)(2)] (6), is found in the presence of pyrazine or 2,5-dimethylpyrazine. The crystal structures of these compounds, except 2 and 7, have been determined by X-ray crystallography, and all compounds have been characterized by several spectroscopic and magnetic investigations. The longer Ru-Ru bonds are found in the Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) species (2.606(1) and 2.628(2) A for 3 and 6, respectively) compared with those of Ru(3.5+)(mu-OMe)(2)Ru(3.5+) species (2.5260(6) A and 2.514(2) A for 4 and 5, respectively). These structural features and magnetic and ESR data revealed the electronic configurations of sigma(2)pi(2)delta(2)delta(2)pi(2) and sigma(2)pi(2)delta(2)delta(2)pi(1) for Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) and Ru(3.5+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3.5+), respectively, in which the former is diamagnetic and the latter is paramagnetic with S = (1)/(2) ground state. Compound 5 forms a one-dimensional chain with alternating arrangement of a Ru(3.5+)(mu-OMe)(2)Ru(3.5+) unit and a free benzo-15-crown-5-ether molecule by intermolecular hydrogen bonds (O(H(2)O).O(crown-ether) = 2.91-3.04 A). The cyclic voltammetry in DMF affords characteristic metal-origin voltammograms; two reversible and two quasi-reversible redox waves were observed. The feature of cyclic voltammograms for the Ru(3+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3+) species (2, 3, and 6) and the Ru(3.5+)(mu-OR)(2)Ru(3.5+) species (4 and 7) are similar to each other, indicating that both species are electrochemically stable. The isolation of the pyrazine-trans-coordinated species, [Ph(4)P][Ru(Cl(4)Cat)(2)(L)(2)] (L = pyrazine (8), 2,5-dimethylpyrazine (9)), revealed the selective isolation of 6 from pyrazine-containing solution. UV-vis spectral variation by ethanolysis for 9 demonstrated the selective conversion from the pyrazine-trans-coordinated species to the Ru(3+)(mu-OEt)(2)Ru(3+) species without an oxidation to the Ru(3.5+)(mu-OEt)(2)Ru(3.5+) species. This result suggests the presence of equilibrium between [Ru(Cl(4)Cat)(2)(L)(2)](-) and Ru(3+)(mu-OEt)(2)Ru(3+) species in the synthetic condition for 6.