Self-assembly of [Sn(OPMe3)3(CF3SO3)2]6 metallocyclic Sn(ii) hexamer stacks with CF3-lined channel interiors

Abstract

[Sn(OPMe₃)₃(CF₃SO₃)₂]₆ (1) self-assembles to form a highly unusual hexagonal metallocyclic array with bridging CF₃SO₃⁻ groups. The discrete hexamers stack along the c-axis to form hydrophobic CF₃-lined channels with an F⋯F distance across the channel diameter of 0.8 nm. This Sn(II) complex is different from its Pb(II) analogue, which instead forms a discrete, doubly CF₃SO₃-bridged dimer of formula, [{Pb(OPMe₃)₃(CF₃SO₃)}₂(μ-CF₃SO₃)₂] (3).