Metal ion complexation by a new, highly sterically hindered, bowl-shaped carboxylate ligandElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: detailed procedures for the syntheses of BmtBr, BmtCO2H and BmtCO2Li as well as characterization data for all new compounds. See http://www.rsc.org/suppdata/cc/b0/b006647h/

Abstract

A carboxylate encapsulated by arene groups arranged in a bowl-like shape coordinates to Fe(II), Co(II) and Cu(II) to form mononuclear complexes with atypical structures enforced by the extreme steric demands of the ligand.