Two- and three-dimensional CuSCN co-ordination networks including new CuSCN structural motifs

Abstract

The reaction of CuSCN with linear bridging N-donor ligands afforded two- and three-dimensional networks depending on the ligand used. Reaction of two equivalents of CuSCN with one equivalent of pyrazine in ethanol and aqueous ammonia afforded the three-dimensional network [Cu₂(SCN)₂(pyz)]_∞. Replacing pyrazine with 4,4′-bipyridyl under the same conditions gave a different three-dimensional network [Cu₂(SCN)₂(4,4′-bipy)]_∞. In contrast two-dimensional sheets of [Cu₂(SCN)₂(bpe)]_∞ (bpe = 1,2-trans-(4-pyridyl)ethene) were isolated from the reaction of CuSCN with bpe in a 2∶1 ratio. The structures of both [Cu₂(SCN)₂(pyz)]_∞ and [Cu₂(SCN)₂(4,4′-bipy)]_∞ are constructed from (CuSCN)_∞ layers linked in a herringbone fashion by the bridging N-donor ligands to afford three-dimensional networks. The complex [Cu₂(SCN)₂(bpe)]_∞, however, shows two-dimensional sheets which are formed from (CuSCN)_∞ stair-polymers bridged by bpe ligands.