Synthesis, structural studies, kinetic stability, and oxidation catalysis of the late first row transition metal complexes of 4,10-dimethyl-1,4,7,10-tetraazabicyclo[6.5.2]pentadecane

Abstract

Synthetic details for 4,11-dimethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazabicyclo[6.5.2]pentadecane, the dimethyl ethylene cross-bridged homocyclen ligand are presented for the first time. Its novel Mn²⁺, Fe²⁺, Mn³⁺, and Fe³⁺ complexes have been synthesized and characterized. X-ray crystal structures were obtained for both manganese complexes, along with five additional Co³⁺, Cu²⁺, and Zn²⁺ structures, the first structural characterization of complexes of this ligand. Each complex has the cis-V configuration of the cross-bridged macrocycle ring, leaving cis labile binding sites for interaction of the complex with oxidants and/or substrates. The copper(II) complex kinetic stability in 5 M HCl and at elevated temperatures was determined and compared to related complexes in the literature. The electronic properties of the manganese and iron complexes were evaluated using solid state magnetic moment determination and acetonitrile solution electronic spectroscopy, revealing high spin metal complexes in all cases. Cyclic voltammetry in acetonitrile of the divalent iron and manganese complexes revealed reversible redox processes, suggesting catalytic reactivity involving electron transfer processes are possible for both complexes. Screening of the Mn²⁺ and Fe²⁺ complexes for oxidation catalysis using hydrogen peroxide as the terminal oxidant showed both complexes are worthy of continued development.