Synthesis and crystal structure of a triple-decker Cu^II₃Tl^I₂ complex: first example of a thallium(I) system in the imino-phenolate Schiff base ligand family

Abstract

<div><p>This report deals with the synthesis, characterization, and crystal structure of a heteropentanuclear Cu^II₃Tl^I₂ compound [(Cu^IIL)₃Tl^I₂](NO₃)₂ (<b>1</b>), where H₂L=<i>N</i>,<i>N</i>′-ethylenebis(3-ethoxysalicylaldimine). This compound crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system within space group <i>C2</i>/<i>c</i>. Each of the two symmetry related thallium(I) centers is located between a terminal and a common, central [Cu^IIL] by forming bonds with four phenoxo and three ethoxy oxygens. The three [Cu^IIL] moieties are parallel and hence <b>1</b> is a triple-decker system. Neighboring triple-decker moieties are interlinked by π⋯π stacking interaction and weak hydrogen bonds to generate 3-D self-assembly in <b>1</b>. Salient features in the composition and structure of the title compound are discussed; the title compound is the first example of a thallium(I) system in imino-phenolate Schiff base family.</p></div