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Inorganics, Volume 10, Issue 9 (September 2022) – 23 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Carbonic acid, H2CO3, is a mysterious molecule whose existence was somewhat unclear despite plenty of synthetic and spectroscopic studies. In fact, H2CO3 was often considered nonexistent, even in general-chemistry textbooks. Its simple formula results from the simplest reaction of the likewise fundamental molecules H2O and CO2. By determining the crystal structure of the deuterated form of carbonic acid, D2CO3, using neutron diffraction, the existence of the molecule has now been clarified once and for all. At a pressure of close to 20,000 atm, the monoclinic space group P21/c is adopted, and two molecules of anti-anti shape “pair up” via strong hydrogen bonds. Additionally, the C–O “single” and C=O “double” bonds are shorter and longer than normal due to delocalized π-bonding. View this paper
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14 pages, 3620 KiB  
Article
Trivalent Cobalt Complexes with NNS Tridentate Thiosemicarbazones: Preparation, Structural Study and Investigation of Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity against Human Breast Cancer Cells
by Amany Fathy, Ahmed B. M. Ibrahim, S. Abd Elkhalik, Alexander Villinger and S. M. Abbas
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090145 - 19 Sep 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1905
Abstract
New complexes of trivalent cobalt with substituted thiosemicarbazone ligands having an NNS donor system {HL1 = 4-(4-nitrophenyl)-1-((pyridin-2-yl)methylene)thiosemicarbazide and HL2 = 4-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-((pyridin-2-yl)methylene)thiosemicarbazide} were synthesized via the in situ oxidation of divalent cobalt chloride accompanying its addition to the ligands. The complexes [...] Read more.
New complexes of trivalent cobalt with substituted thiosemicarbazone ligands having an NNS donor system {HL1 = 4-(4-nitrophenyl)-1-((pyridin-2-yl)methylene)thiosemicarbazide and HL2 = 4-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-((pyridin-2-yl)methylene)thiosemicarbazide} were synthesized via the in situ oxidation of divalent cobalt chloride accompanying its addition to the ligands. The complexes C1 and C2 were characterized via elemental (CHNS) analysis and 1H NMR, FT-IR and UV-Vis. spectroscopic data. Further, conductometric studies on the DMF solutions of the complexes indicated their 1:1 nature, and their diamagnetism revealed the low-spin trivalent oxidation state of the cobalt in the complexes. The X-ray diffraction analysis of complex C1 indicated that it crystallizes in the triclinic space group P-1. The metal exhibits an octahedral environment built by two anionic ligands bound via pyridine nitrogen, imine nitrogen and thiol sulfur atoms. The complex is counterbalanced by a chloride ion. In addition, two lattice water molecules were detected in the asymmetric unit of the unit cell. The ligand HL2 (20 mg/mL in DMSO) displayed inhibition zones of 10 mm against both S. aureus and E. coli, and the same concentration of the respective complex raised this activity to 15 and 12 mm against these bacterial strains, respectively. As a comparison, ampicillin inhibited these bacterial strains by 21 and 25 mm, respectively. Screening assay by HL1 on four human cancer cells revealed the most enhanced activity against the breast MCF-7 cells. The induced growth inhibitions in the MCF-7 cells by all compounds (0–100 μg/mL) have been detected. The ligands {HL1 and HL2} and complex C2 gave inhibitions with IC50 values of 52.4, 145.4 and 49.9 μM, respectively. These results are more meaningful in comparison with similar cobalt complexes, but less efficient compared with the inhibition with IC50 of 9.66 μM afforded by doxorubicin. In addition, doxorubicin, HL1 and HL2 induced cytotoxicity towards healthy BHK cells with IC50 values of 36.42, 54.8 and 110.6 μM, but surviving fractions of 66.1% and 62.7% of these cells were detected corresponding to a concentration of 100 μg/mL of the complexes (136.8 μM of C1 and 131.4 μM of C2). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganics: 10th Anniversary)
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16 pages, 5368 KiB  
Article
Influence of Doping-Ion-Type on the Characteristics of Al2O3-Based Nanocomposites and Their Capabilities of Removing Indigo Carmine from Water
by Fatima A. Adam
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090144 - 19 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1840
Abstract
Globally, the continuous contamination of natural water resources is a severe issue, and looking for a solution for such a massive problem should be the researcher’s concern. Herein, Al2O3, Al2O3-CuO, Al2O3-NiO, [...] Read more.
Globally, the continuous contamination of natural water resources is a severe issue, and looking for a solution for such a massive problem should be the researcher’s concern. Herein, Al2O3, Al2O3-CuO, Al2O3-NiO, and Al2O3-CoO were prepared via a simple and fast route, utilizing glucose as a capping material. All synthesis conditions were uniform to make the fabricated nanomaterials’ characteristics exclusively influenced by only the ion type. The SEM analysis showed that the particles of the synthesized Al2O3, Al2O3-CuO, Al2O3-NiO, and Al2O3-CoO were all less than 25 nm. The Al2O3-NiO showed the smallest particle size (11 to 14 nm) and the best BET surface area of 125.6 m2 g−1. All sorbents were tested for removing organic pollutants, as exemplified by indigo carmine (IGC) dye. The Al2O3-NiO possessed the highest adsorption capacity among the other sorbents for which it had been selected for further investigations. The IGC sorption reached equilibrium within 2.0 h, and the kinetic study revealed that the IGC removal by Al2O3-NiO nanocomposite fitted the FOM and the LFM. The sorbent showed an experimental adsorption capacity (qt) of 456.3 mg g−1 from a 200 mg L−1 IGC solution and followed the Langmuir model. The thermodynamic findings indicated an endothermic, spontaneous, and physisorption nature. The seawater and groundwater samples contaminated with 5.0 mg L−1 IGC concentrations were fully remediated using the Al2O3-NiO nanocomposite. The reuse study showed 93.3% average efficiency during four successive cycles. Consequently, prepared Al2O3-NiO nanocomposite is recommended for the treatment of contaminated water. Full article
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18 pages, 8088 KiB  
Article
Preparation, Microstructural Characterization and Photocatalysis Tests of V5+-Doped TiO2/WO3 Nanocomposites Supported on Electrospun Membranes
by Michel F. G. Pereira, Mayane M. Nascimento, Pedro Henrique N. Cardoso, Carlos Yure B. Oliveira, Ginetton F. Tavares and Evando S. Araújo
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090143 - 19 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1943
Abstract
Metal oxide nanocomposites (MON) have gained significant attention in the literature for the possibility of improving the optical and electronic properties of the hybrid material, compared to its pristine constituent oxides. These superior properties have been observed for TiO2 — based MON, [...] Read more.
Metal oxide nanocomposites (MON) have gained significant attention in the literature for the possibility of improving the optical and electronic properties of the hybrid material, compared to its pristine constituent oxides. These superior properties have been observed for TiO2 — based MON, which exhibit improved structural stability and photoactivity in environmental decontamination processes. In addition, the use of polymer membrane-supported MON is preferable to prevent further aggregation of particles, increase the surface area of the semiconductor in contact with the contaminant, and enable material reuse without considerable efficiency loss. In this work, V5+-doped TiO2/WO3 MON nanostructures were prepared by the sintering process at 500 °C and supported in electrospun fiber membranes for application as photocatalyst devices. Microstructural characterization of the samples was performed by XRD, SEM, EDS, Raman, and DSC techniques. The reflectance spectra showed that the bandgap of the MON was progressively decreased (3.20 to 2.11 eV) with the V5+ ions doping level increase. The fiber-supported MON showed photoactivity for rhodamine B dye degradation using visible light. In addition, the highest photodegradation efficiency was noted for the systems with 5 wt% vanadium oxide dispersed in the fibers (92% dye degradation in 120 min of exposure to the light source), with recyclability of the composite material for use in new photocatalysis cycles. The best results are directly related to the microstructure, lower bandgap and aggregation of metal oxide nanocomposite in the electrospun membrane, compared to the support-free MON. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances into Nanostructured Oxides)
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16 pages, 2138 KiB  
Article
Structural Control and Electrical Behavior of Thermally Reduced Graphene Oxide Samples Assisted with Malonic Acid and Phosphorus Pentoxide
by Ruta Aukstakojyte, Justina Gaidukevic, Gediminas Niaura, Martynas Skapas, Virginijus Bukauskas and Jurgis Barkauskas
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090142 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2039
Abstract
We present a detailed study of the structural and electrical changes occurring in two graphene oxide (GO) samples during thermal reduction in the presence of malonic acid (MA) (5 and 10 wt%) and P2O5 additives. The morphology and de-oxidation efficiency [...] Read more.
We present a detailed study of the structural and electrical changes occurring in two graphene oxide (GO) samples during thermal reduction in the presence of malonic acid (MA) (5 and 10 wt%) and P2O5 additives. The morphology and de-oxidation efficiency of reduced GO (rGO) samples are characterized by Fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron, energy-dispersive X-ray, Raman spectroscopies, transmission electron and scanning electron microscopies, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrical conductivity measurements. Results show that MA and P2O5 additives are responsible for the recovery of π-conjugation in rGO as the XRD pattern presents peaks corresponding to (002) graphitic-lattice planes, suggesting the formation of the sp2-like carbon structure. Raman spectra show disorders in graphene sheets. Elemental analysis shows that the proposed reduction method in the presence of additives also suggests the simultaneous insertion of phosphorus with a relatively high content (0.3–2.3 at%) in rGO. Electrical conductivity measurements show that higher amounts of additives used in the GO reduction more effectively improve electron mobility in rGO samples, as they possess the highest electrical conductivity. Moreover, the relatively high conductivity at low bulk density indicates that prepared rGO samples could be applied as metal-free and non-expensive carbon-based electrodes for supercapacitors and (bio)sensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed Metal Oxides II)
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24 pages, 2972 KiB  
Review
A Minireview on the Regeneration of NCM Cathode Material Directly from Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries with Different Cathode Chemistries
by Alexander A. Pavlovskii, Konstantin Pushnitsa, Alexandra Kosenko, Pavel Novikov and Anatoliy A. Popovich
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090141 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5749
Abstract
Research on the regeneration of cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries for resource reclamation and environmental protection is attracting more and more attention today. However, the majority of studies on recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) placed the emphasis only on recovering target metals, such [...] Read more.
Research on the regeneration of cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries for resource reclamation and environmental protection is attracting more and more attention today. However, the majority of studies on recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) placed the emphasis only on recovering target metals, such as Co, Ni, and Li, from the cathode materials, or how to recycle spent LIBs by conventional means. Effective reclamation strategies (e.g., pyrometallurgical technologies, hydrometallurgy techniques, and biological strategies) have been used in research on recycling used LIBs. Nevertheless, none of the existing reviews of regenerating cathode materials from waste LIBs elucidated the strategies to regenerate lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NCM or LiNixCoyMnzO2) cathode materials directly from spent LIBs containing other than NCM cathodes but, at the same time, frequently used commercial cathode materials such as LiCoO2 (LCO), LiFePO4 (LFP), LiMn2O4 (LMO), etc. or from spent mixed cathode materials. This review showcases the strategies and techniques for regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode active materials directly from some commonly used and different types of mixed-cathode materials. The article summarizes the various technologies and processes of regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode active materials directly from some individual cathode materials and the mixed-cathode scraps of spent LIBs without their preliminary separation. In the meantime, the economic benefits and diverse synthetic routes of regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode materials reported in the literature are analyzed systematically. This minireview can lay guidance and a theoretical basis for restoring LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beyond Lithium-Ion Battery Technology)
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11 pages, 3824 KiB  
Article
High-Temperature Interactions of Silicon-Aluminum Oxynitrides (Sialons) with Sodium Fluoride
by Nailya S. Akhmadullina, Vladimir P. Sirotinkin, Nikolay A. Ovsyannikov, Anton S. Lysenkov and Yury F. Kargin
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090140 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1763
Abstract
The high-temperature interactions of β-SiAlONs with sodium fluoride NaF at 1650 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere are described in this paper. It was found that in case of Si5AlON7 the formation of phases enriched with aluminum occurred, including Si4 [...] Read more.
The high-temperature interactions of β-SiAlONs with sodium fluoride NaF at 1650 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere are described in this paper. It was found that in case of Si5AlON7 the formation of phases enriched with aluminum occurred, including Si4Al2O2N6 at an NaF loading of 0.5 wt.% and Si4Al2O2N6 and Si3.1Al2.9O2.9N5.1 at an NaF loading of 2.0 wt.%, although Si5AlON7 still was a major phase. For Si4Al2O2N6, a kind of disproportionation was observed, and Si5AlON7 formed together with Si3Al3O3N5 and Si3.1Al2.9O2.9N5.1. Moreover, the initial phase Si4Al2O2N6 was not identified at all, while Si5AlON7 was found to be a major phase at an NaF loading of 0.5 wt.% and Si3.1Al2.9O2.9N5.1 prevailed at an NaF loading of 2.0 wt.%. All the samples showed a high degree of densification when studied with scanning electronic microscopy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganics: 10th Anniversary)
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43 pages, 10320 KiB  
Review
Preparation and Real World Applications of Titania Composite Materials for Photocatalytic Surface, Air, and Water Purification: State of the Art
by Volker Seiß, Susanne Thiel and Maik Eichelbaum
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090139 - 15 Sep 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3984
Abstract
The semiconducting transition metal oxide TiO2 is a rather cheap and non-toxic material with superior photocatalytic properties. TiO2 thin films and nanoparticles are known to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antialgal, self, water, and air-cleaning properties under UV or sun light irradiation. [...] Read more.
The semiconducting transition metal oxide TiO2 is a rather cheap and non-toxic material with superior photocatalytic properties. TiO2 thin films and nanoparticles are known to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antialgal, self, water, and air-cleaning properties under UV or sun light irradiation. Based on these excellent qualities, titania holds great promises in various fields of applications. The vast majority of published field and pilot scale studies are dealing with the modification of building materials or generally focus on air purification. Based on the reviewed papers, for the coating of glass, walls, ceilings, streets, tunnels, and other large surfaces, titania is usually applied by spray-coating due to the scalibility and cost-efficiency of this method compared to alternative coating procedures. In contrast, commercialized applications of titania in medical fields or in water purification are rarely found. Moreover, in many realistic test scenarios it becomes evident that the photocatalytic activity is often significantly lower than in laboratory settings. In this review, we will give an overview on the most relevant real world applications and commonly applied preparation methods for these purposes. We will also look at the relevant bottlenecks such as visible light photocatalytic activity and long-term stability and will make suggestions to overcome these hurdles for a widespread usage of titania as photocalyst. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocomposites for Photocatalysis)
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10 pages, 2022 KiB  
Article
Luminescent Zn Halide Complexes with 2-(2-Aminophenyl)benzothiazole Derivatives
by Taisiya S. Sukhikh, Dmitry S. Kolybalov, Ekaterina K. Pylova and Sergey N. Konchenko
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090138 - 15 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1840
Abstract
We report a comparative study of coordination behaviour of 2-(2-aminophenyl)benzothiazole (NH2-pbt) and its phosphorus-containing derivative, α-aminophosphine oxide (PCNH-pbt), towards zinc halides. The corresponding coordination compounds [Zn(L)2Hal2] (L = PCNH-pbt, Hal = [...] Read more.
We report a comparative study of coordination behaviour of 2-(2-aminophenyl)benzothiazole (NH2-pbt) and its phosphorus-containing derivative, α-aminophosphine oxide (PCNH-pbt), towards zinc halides. The corresponding coordination compounds [Zn(L)2Hal2] (L = PCNH-pbt, Hal = Cl, 1 and Hal = Br, 2) and [Zn(L’)Hal2] (L’ = NH2-pbt, Hal = Cl, 3 and Hal = Br, 4) were obtained as single phases. As evidenced by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, L’ ligand coordinates to Zn in a chelate manner via two N atoms. Despite a similar coordination mode in complexes 3 and 4, the spatial geometry of the ligand differs notably, which implies a relatively high flexibility of NH2-pbt. The L ligand exhibits another coordination mode, binding with Zn only via the oxygen of the P=O group. The differences in the structures of NH2-pbt, 3 and 4, and their counterparts, PCNH-pbt, 1 and 2, induce differences in their solid-state photoluminescence properties. The former group of the compounds exhibits conventional single-band emission, while the latter group reveals two bands. The minor band at 450 nm is ascribed to a radiative transition for the regular amine species, while the major band at 520–550 nm can be associated either with the proton-transferred imine species (ESIPT mechanism) or with a charge transfer state (TICT) with a different geometry. Full article
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31 pages, 2897 KiB  
Review
A Fascinating Trip into Iron and Copper Dyes for DSSCs
by Luca Mauri, Alessia Colombo, Claudia Dragonetti and Francesco Fagnani
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090137 - 10 Sep 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2518
Abstract
The production of electricity in a greener and more sustainable way by employing renewable sources is a great challenge in modern times. Photovoltaic systems represent an important possibility because sunlight is the most abundant renewable source. In this review article, recent studies (from [...] Read more.
The production of electricity in a greener and more sustainable way by employing renewable sources is a great challenge in modern times. Photovoltaic systems represent an important possibility because sunlight is the most abundant renewable source. In this review article, recent studies (from 2018 to the present) involving novel iron and copper complexes employed as dyes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) are reported; mono- and bimetallic Fe complexes, Cu-based dyes, and devices presenting both metals are discussed, together with the performances of the DSSCs reported in the papers and the corresponding values of the main parameters employed to characterize such solar cells. The feasibility of DSSCs employing copper and iron dyes, alone or in combination with other earth-abundant metals, is demonstrated. The proper optimization of the sensitizers, together with that of the electrolyte and of the semiconducting layer, will likely lead to the development of highly performing and cheap photovoltaic devices for future applications on a much larger scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Coordination Complexes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSCs))
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15 pages, 5212 KiB  
Article
Low-Cost Carbon Nanoparticles for Removing Hazardous Organic Pollutants from Water: Complete Remediation Study and Multi-Use Investigation
by Babiker Y. Abdulkhair and Mohamed R. Elamin
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090136 - 7 Sep 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1942
Abstract
Continuous waste discharge into natural water resources in many countries is a severe global issue, and seeking an effective solution is a researcher’s concern. Herein, toilet paper waste was a low-cost precursor for preparing carbon nanoparticles (TPCNPs). The characterization of TPCNPs revealed a [...] Read more.
Continuous waste discharge into natural water resources in many countries is a severe global issue, and seeking an effective solution is a researcher’s concern. Herein, toilet paper waste was a low-cost precursor for preparing carbon nanoparticles (TPCNPs). The characterization of TPCNPs revealed a 30 nm to 50 nm particle size, a 264 m2 g−1 surface area, and a cubical graphite lattice XRD pattern. The TPCNPs were tested for removing malachite green (MG), indigo carmine (IC), rhodamine B (RB), and methylene blue (MB) dyes from water. The solution parameters were examined for the sorption process, and a pH of 5.0 suited the MB removal, while a pH of 6.0 was suitable for MG, IC, and RB. The effect of concentration investigation showed an adsorption capacity of 110.9, 64.8, 73.5, and 98 mg g−1 for MG, IC, RB, and MB, respectively. The sorption of the four dyes fitted the Langmuir isotherm model; it was exothermic and spontaneous. The water remediation was tested using groundwater and seawater samples (GW and SW) spiked with pollutants. It is worth mentioning that one treatment sufficed for the remediation of GW and SW contaminated by 5 mg L−1 concentration, while a double treatment was required for 10 mg L−1 pollution in both samples. Full article
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10 pages, 4143 KiB  
Communication
Reactivity and Stability of a Ring-Expanded N-Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Boryl Imidinate
by Rex S. C. Charman, Thomas M. Horsley Downie, Thomas H. Jerome, Mary F. Mahon and David J. Liptrot
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090135 - 7 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1907
Abstract
Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) have evolved from a revolutionary concept to widely applied catalysts. We recently reported the ring-expanded N-heterocyclic carbene supported copper(I) boryliminomethanide, (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin and noted it reacted with heterocumulenes in a fashion reminiscent of FLPs. We thus set out [...] Read more.
Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) have evolved from a revolutionary concept to widely applied catalysts. We recently reported the ring-expanded N-heterocyclic carbene supported copper(I) boryliminomethanide, (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin and noted it reacted with heterocumulenes in a fashion reminiscent of FLPs. We thus set out to explore its reactivity with a range of other substrates known to react with FLPs. This was undertaken by a series of synthetic studies using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray crystallography. (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin was investigated for its reactivity towards water, hydrogen, and phenylacetylene. Its solution stability was also explored. Upon heating, (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin decomposed to (6-Dipp)CuCN, which was characterised by SC-XRD and NMR spectroscopy, and pinBtBu. Although no reaction was observed with hydrogen, (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin reacted with water to form (6-Dipp)CuC(=N(H)tBu)B(OH)pin, which was structurally characterised. In contrast to its FLP-reminiscent heterolytic cleavage reactivity towards water, (6-Dipp)CuC(=NtBu)Bpin acted as a Brønsted base towards phenyl acetylene generating (6-Dipp)CuCCPh, which was characterised by SC-XRD, IR, and NMR spectroscopy, and HC(=NtBu)Bpin Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synergy between Main Group and Transition Metal Chemistry)
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65 pages, 14124 KiB  
Review
Pincer Complexes Derived from Tridentate Schiff Bases for Their Use as Antimicrobial Metallopharmaceuticals
by Alberto Aragón-Muriel, Viviana Reyes-Márquez, Farrah Cañavera-Buelvas, Jesús R. Parra-Unda, Fernando Cuenú-Cabezas, Dorian Polo-Cerón, Raúl Colorado-Peralta, Galdina V. Suárez-Moreno, Bethsy Adriana Aguilar-Castillo and David Morales-Morales
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090134 - 5 Sep 2022
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4134
Abstract
Within the current challenges in medicinal chemistry, the development of new and better therapeutic agents effective against infectious diseases produced by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites stands out. With chemotherapy as one of the main strategies against these diseases focusing on the administration [...] Read more.
Within the current challenges in medicinal chemistry, the development of new and better therapeutic agents effective against infectious diseases produced by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites stands out. With chemotherapy as one of the main strategies against these diseases focusing on the administration of organic and inorganic drugs, the latter is generally based on the synergistic effect produced by the formation of metal complexes with biologically active organic compounds. In this sense, Schiff bases (SBs) represent and ideal ligand scaffold since they have demonstrated a broad spectrum of antitumor, antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, among others. In addition, SBs are synthesized in an easy manner from one-step condensation reactions, being thus suitable for facile structural modifications, having the imine group as a coordination point found in most of their metal complexes, and promoting chelation when other donor atoms are three, four, or five bonds apart. However, despite the wide variety of metal complexes found in the literature using this type of ligands, only a handful of them include on their structures tridentate SBs ligands and their biological evaluation has been explored. Hence, this review summarizes the most important antimicrobial activity results reported this far for pincer-type complexes (main group and d-block) derived from SBs tridentate ligands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organometallic Pincer Chemistry)
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10 pages, 2568 KiB  
Article
Crystallographic and Theoretical Study of Osme Bonds in Nitrido-Osmium(VI) Complexes
by Rosa M. Gomila and Antonio Frontera
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090133 - 5 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1884
Abstract
Osme bonds have been recently defined as the attractive interaction between an element of group 8 acting as an electrophile and any atom or group of atoms acting as a nucleophile. To date, the known examples of osme bonds in X-ray structures involve [...] Read more.
Osme bonds have been recently defined as the attractive interaction between an element of group 8 acting as an electrophile and any atom or group of atoms acting as a nucleophile. To date, the known examples of osme bonds in X-ray structures involve mostly the highly reactive OsO4 and amines and amine oxides. In this work, evidence supporting the existence of osme bonds in osmium(VI) derivatives is reported. In particular, nitrido-osmium(VI) complexes that present square-pyramidal geometries are well disposed to participate in osme bonds opposite to the Os≡N bond. By using a combination of experimental and theoretical results, the existence and importance of this new class of σ-hole interactions is demonstrated in the solid state of several nitrido-osmium(VI) derivatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Solid-State Chemistry)
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16 pages, 4686 KiB  
Article
The Crystal Structure of Carbonic Acid
by Sebastian Benz, Da Chen, Andreas Möller, Michael Hofmann, David Schnieders and Richard Dronskowski
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090132 - 3 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 9336
Abstract
Ubiquitous carbonic acid, H2CO3, a key molecule in biochemistry, geochemistry, and also extraterrestrial chemistry, is known from a plethora of physicochemical studies. Its crystal structure has now been determined from neutron-diffraction data on a deuterated sample in a specially [...] Read more.
Ubiquitous carbonic acid, H2CO3, a key molecule in biochemistry, geochemistry, and also extraterrestrial chemistry, is known from a plethora of physicochemical studies. Its crystal structure has now been determined from neutron-diffraction data on a deuterated sample in a specially built hybrid clamped cell. At 1.85 GPa, D2CO3 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 5.392(2), b = 6.661(4), c = 5.690(1) Å, β = 92.66(3)°, Z = 4, with one symmetry-inequivalent anti-anti shaped D2CO3 molecule forming dimers, as previously predicted. Quantum chemistry evidences π bonding within the CO3 molecular core, very strong hydrogen bonding between the molecules, and a massive influence of the crystal field on all bonds; phonon calculations emphasize the locality of the vibrations, being rather insensitive to the extended structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganics: 10th Anniversary)
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13 pages, 3196 KiB  
Article
Facile Construction of Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 Heterojunction with Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Norfloxacin
by Zhengru Zhu, Haiwen Xia, Hong Li and Songlin Han
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090131 - 1 Sep 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2292
Abstract
To mitigate antibiotic residues in the water environment, Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 (BSCN) heterojunction was fabricated by a facile ultrasound-assisted hydrothermal method. The microstructure, morphology, and optical properties of Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3 [...] Read more.
To mitigate antibiotic residues in the water environment, Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 (BSCN) heterojunction was fabricated by a facile ultrasound-assisted hydrothermal method. The microstructure, morphology, and optical properties of Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 heterojunction was studied by XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM, TEM, UV–Vis DRS, and PL. The degradation rate of 20 mg/L norfloxacin (NOR) under visible light for 3 h was adopted as one of the indexes to evaluate the photocatalytic performance of Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 heterojunction. Embellished with 20% Bi2Sn2O7 (BSO), the Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 heterojunction decomposed 94% NOR in the experimental solution, which was 2.35 and 3.03 times as much as pristine g-C3N4 and bare Bi2Sn2O7, respectively. In addition, the Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 heterojunction still eliminated 89% of NOR after five cycles, portending outstanding stability and cyclability of photocatalytic activity. A possible photocatalytic mechanism of Bi2Sn2O7/g-C3N4 heterojunction for NOR degradation is proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganics: 10th Anniversary)
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13 pages, 3288 KiB  
Article
Effect of CuO Loading on the Photocatalytic Activity of SrTiO3 for Hydrogen Evolution
by Xuan Truong Mai, Duc Nguyen Bui, Van Khang Pham, Thi Hien Lan Nguyen, Thi To Loan Nguyen, Hung Dung Chau and Thi Kim Ngan Tran
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090130 - 31 Aug 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1955
Abstract
A CuO-loaded SrTiO3 catalyst showed highly photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution. This catalyst was prepared by an impregnation method and characterized by XRD, TEM, BET, XPS, Uv-vis DRS and PL techniques. Under optimum conditions, the best rate of H2 evolution [...] Read more.
A CuO-loaded SrTiO3 catalyst showed highly photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution. This catalyst was prepared by an impregnation method and characterized by XRD, TEM, BET, XPS, Uv-vis DRS and PL techniques. Under optimum conditions, the best rate of H2 evolution of the CuO-loaded SrTiO3 catalyst is 5811 µmol h−1g−1, whereas it is a mere 34 µmol h−1g−1 for the pure SrTiO3. High efficiency, low cost and good stability are some of the merits that underline the promising potential of CuO-loaded SrTiO3 in the photocatalytic hydrogen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganics: 10th Anniversary)
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18 pages, 4970 KiB  
Article
N-O Ligand Supported Stannylenes: Preparation, Crystal, and Molecular Structures
by Hannah S. I. Sullivan, Andrew J. Straiton, Gabriele Kociok-Köhn and Andrew L. Johnson
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090129 - 31 Aug 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2612
Abstract
A new series of tin(II) complexes (1, 2, 4, and 5) were successfully synthesized by employing hydroxy functionalized pyridine ligands, specifically 2-hydroxypyridine (hpH), 8-hydroxyquinoline (hqH), and 10-hydroxybenzo[h]quinoline (hbqH) as stabilizing ligands. Complexes [Sn(μ-κ2ON-OC5H4 [...] Read more.
A new series of tin(II) complexes (1, 2, 4, and 5) were successfully synthesized by employing hydroxy functionalized pyridine ligands, specifically 2-hydroxypyridine (hpH), 8-hydroxyquinoline (hqH), and 10-hydroxybenzo[h]quinoline (hbqH) as stabilizing ligands. Complexes [Sn(μ-κ2ON-OC5H4N)(N{SiMe3}2)]2 (1) and [Sn4(μ-κ2ON-OC5H4N)61O-OC5H4N)2] (2) are the first structurally characterized examples of tin(II) oxypyridinato complexes exhibiting {Sn2(OCN)2} heterocyclic cores. As part of our study, 1H DOSY NMR experiments were undertaken using an external calibration curve (ECC) approach, with temperature-independent normalized diffusion coefficients, to determine the nature of oligomerisation of 2 in solution. An experimentally determined diffusion coefficient (298 K) of 6.87 × 10−10 m2 s−1 corresponds to a hydrodynamic radius of Ca. 4.95 Å. This is consistent with the observation of an averaged hydrodynamic radii and equilibria between dimeric [Sn{hp}2]2 and tetrameric [Sn{hp}2]4 species at 298 K. Testing this hypothesis, 1H DOSY NMR experiments were undertaken at regular intervals between 298 K–348 K and show a clear change in the calculated hydrodynamic radii form 4.95 Å (298 K) to 4.35 Å (348 K) consistent with a tetramer ⇄ dimer equilibria which lies towards the dimeric species at higher temperatures. Using these data, thermodynamic parameters for the equilibrium (ΔH° = 70.4 (±9.22) kJ mol−1, ΔS° = 259 (±29.5) J K−1 mol−1 and ΔG°298 = −6.97 (±12.7) kJ mol−1) were calculated. In the course of our studies, the Sn(II) oxo cluster, [Sn6(m3-O)6(OR)4:{Sn(II)(OR)2}2] (3) (R = C5H4N) was serendipitously isolated, and its molecular structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. However, attempts to characterise the complex by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy were thwarted by solubility issues, and attempts to synthesise 3 on a larger scale were unsuccessful. In contrast to the oligomeric structures observed for 1 and 2, single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies unambiguously establish the monomeric 4-coordinate solid-state structures of [Sn(κ2ON-OC9H6N)2)] (4) and [Sn(κ2ON-OC13H8N)2)] (5). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synergy between Main Group and Transition Metal Chemistry)
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18 pages, 2154 KiB  
Article
The Role of the Bridge in Single-Ion Magnet Behaviour: Reinvestigation of Cobalt(II) Succinate and Fumarate Coordination Polymers with Nicotinamide
by Marek Brezovan, Jana Juráková, Ján Moncol, Ľubor Dlháň, Maria Korabik, Ivan Šalitroš, Ján Pavlik and Peter Segľa
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090128 - 30 Aug 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2105
Abstract
Two previously synthesized cobalt(II) coordination polymers; {[Co(μ2-suc)(nia)2(H2O)2]·2H2O}n (suc = succinate(2−), nia = nicotinamide) and [Co(μ2-fum)(nia)2(H2O)2]n (fum = fumarate(2−)) were prepared and [...] Read more.
Two previously synthesized cobalt(II) coordination polymers; {[Co(μ2-suc)(nia)2(H2O)2]·2H2O}n (suc = succinate(2−), nia = nicotinamide) and [Co(μ2-fum)(nia)2(H2O)2]n (fum = fumarate(2−)) were prepared and thoroughly characterized. Both complexes form 1D coordination chains by bonding of Co(nia)2(H2O)2 units through succinate or fumarate ligands while these chains are further linked through hydrogen bonds to 3D supramolecular networks. The intermolecular interactions of both complexes are quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis and their infrared spectra, electronic spectra and static magnetic properties are confronted with DFT and state-of-the-art ab-initio calculations. Dynamic magnetic measurements show that both complexes exhibit single-ion magnet behaviour induced by a magnetic field. Since they possess very similar chemical structure, differing only in the rigidity of the bridge between the magnetic centres, this chemical feature is put into context with changes in their magnetic relaxation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Coordination Chemistry)
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13 pages, 3604 KiB  
Article
Effect of the Synthesis Conditions on the Morphology, Luminescence and Scintillation Properties of a New Light Scintillation Material Li2CaSiO4:Eu2+ for Neutron and Charged Particle Detection
by Ilia Komendo, Vitaly Mechinsky, Andrei Fedorov, Georgy Dosovitskiy, Victor Schukin, Daria Kuznetsova, Marina Zykova, Yury Velikodny and Mikhail Korjik
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090127 - 30 Aug 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2021
Abstract
In the present article, the influence of the activator concentration and impurity content of raw materials on the luminescence and scintillation properties of Li2CaSiO4 was studied. Polycrystalline powder material was obtained by the sol–gel method. It was shown that europium [...] Read more.
In the present article, the influence of the activator concentration and impurity content of raw materials on the luminescence and scintillation properties of Li2CaSiO4 was studied. Polycrystalline powder material was obtained by the sol–gel method. It was shown that europium had limited solubility in the host lattice with a limiting concentration proximate to 0.014 formula units. The maximum intensity of photoluminescence was observed with a divalent europium concentration of 0.002 formula units; the light yield under alpha-particle excitation was measured to be 21,600 photons/MeV for ~200 μm of coating, and under neutron excitation, it was calculated to be 103,800 photons/n, the scintillation kinetics was characterized by an effective decay time of 157 ns. These properties and the transparency in the visible spectrum make it possible to produce scintillation screens with a coating of Li2CaSiO4 for detecting neutrons, alpha particles and low-energy beta radiation. The low Zeff (~15) of this compound makes it less sensitive to gamma rays. The 480 nm blue emission peak makes this material compatible with most commercial PMT photocathodes, CCD cameras and silicon photomultipliers, which have a maximum quantum efficiency in the blue–green spectral region. Full article
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9 pages, 4180 KiB  
Article
MOF Derived Manganese Oxides Nanospheres Embedded in N-Doped Carbon for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
by Zhibin Zhang, Ge Huo, Fengzhan Si, Xian-Zhu Fu, Shao-Qing Liu and Jing-Li Luo
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090126 - 28 Aug 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1982
Abstract
Manganese oxides (MnOx) have been regarded as promising catalyst candidates for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to their natural abundance and extremely low toxicity. However, the intrinsic low conductivity of MnOx limits their application. In this work, Mn oxide embedded [...] Read more.
Manganese oxides (MnOx) have been regarded as promising catalyst candidates for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to their natural abundance and extremely low toxicity. However, the intrinsic low conductivity of MnOx limits their application. In this work, Mn oxide embedded in N doped porous carbon (MnOx@C-N) electrocatalysts were prepared through a facile zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) template method for ORR. The structure, morphology, and composition of the prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Electrocatalytic performances of the prepared materials were investigated by linear sweep voltammetry. Benefiting from the well-defined morphology, high surface area, and porous structure, the MnOx@C-N electrocatalyst showed the highest ORR activity among all investigated materials with the limiting current density of 5.38 mA/cm2 at a rotation speed of 1600 rpm, the positive half-wave potential of 0.645 V vs. RHE, and the electron transfer number of 3.90. This work showcases an effective strategy to enhance ORR activity of MnOx. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Materials for Fuel Cell Electrocatalysts)
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20 pages, 10025 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Correlation in the Colloidal Properties of TiO2 Nanoparticles and Its Impact on the Photocatalytic Activity
by María Concepción Ceballos-Chuc, Carlos Manuel Ramos-Castillo, Manuel Rodríguez-Pérez, Miguel Ángel Ruiz-Gómez, Geonel Rodríguez-Gattorno and Julio Villanueva-Cab
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090125 - 26 Aug 2022
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2692
Abstract
In this work, the relationship between the photodegradation rate of methylene blue (MB) and the effective surface charge of titania nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in an aqueous solution is addressed. Colloidal dispersions were prepared from TiO2 NPs (4–10 nm) for the heterogenous [...] Read more.
In this work, the relationship between the photodegradation rate of methylene blue (MB) and the effective surface charge of titania nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in an aqueous solution is addressed. Colloidal dispersions were prepared from TiO2 NPs (4–10 nm) for the heterogenous photocatalysis test. The dispersion properties such as pH, hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential, and isoelectric point were studied. Acidic TiO2 dispersions (pH = 3.6–4.0) with a positive zeta potential and smaller hydrodynamic diameter exhibit larger colloidal stability and pseudo-first-order kinetics for the degradation of MB. The largest rate constant (5 × 10−2 min1) corresponded to a conversion of 98% within 75 min under UV light. This enhanced rate is a synergic effect between the surface area, charge, and optimal hydrodynamic diameter of TiO2 NPs. A linear correlation between the calculated values for the absorption cross-section and normalized rate constant was found for the systems under study. It was observed that an eventual increase in the pH (4–5.5) reduces the effective surface charge and dispersion stability, causing a decrease in the rate constants of one order of magnitude (10−3 min1) for TiO2 agglomerates with a larger hydrodynamic diameter (300–850 nm). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocomposites for Photocatalysis)
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21 pages, 6133 KiB  
Article
Research on the Hydration and Mechanical Properties of NAC-Hardened Cement under Various Activation Methods
by Shiyi Zhang, Yingfang Fan and Surendra P. Shah
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090124 - 26 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1787
Abstract
Adding mineral admixture is one of the leading technical ways to improve the durability of cement-based materials. Nano attapulgite clay (NAC) is a unique fiber rod crystal structure that can change the physical and mechanical properties of cement-based materials, and opens up a [...] Read more.
Adding mineral admixture is one of the leading technical ways to improve the durability of cement-based materials. Nano attapulgite clay (NAC) is a unique fiber rod crystal structure that can change the physical and mechanical properties of cement-based materials, and opens up a new idea for exploring the durability of high-performance cement-based materials. This paper studied the effects of NAC on the hydration process, pore structure, and mechanical properties of a cement substrate under different activation methods. The results show that the pH value of the pore solution of cement mixed with 5% NAC high-viscosity ore (calcined) was 8.8% higher than that of the cement without NAC. The chemically bound water contents in the 1% and 3% NAC raw (calcined) cement were 14.11% and 14.04%; when the content of calcined NAC raw ore was 1%, the improvement effect on the cement hydration process is the best. The content of calcined NAC was 1%, 3%, and 5%, and the porosity of hardened cement paste was 19%, 19.04%, and 22.27% lower than that of the cement without NAC. Calcining NAC raw ore can improve cement’s hydration process, promote cement’s hydration reaction, and increase the compactness of hardened cement paste. The fluidity of the cement mortar mixed with calcined high-viscosity ore (D and E) at a mixing amount of 5% was reduced by 32.66% and 26.13%, respectively, compared to the ordinary specimens. The flexural strength of the cement paste mixed with calcined raw ore and high-viscosity ore at a mixing amount of 1% was generally improved by 28.40% and 17.28% compared to the cement without NAC paste. After calcination, the NAC raw ore is better than the high-clay ore in improving the mechanical properties of cement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Materials)
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16 pages, 3751 KiB  
Article
Structure and Vibrational Spectra of Pyridine Solvated Solid Bis(Pyridine)silver(I) Perchlorate, [Agpy2ClO4]·0.5py
by Nóra V. May, Niloofar Bayat, Kende Attila Béres, Petra Bombicz, Vladimir M. Petruševski, György Lendvay, Attila Farkas and László Kótai
Inorganics 2022, 10(9), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics10090123 - 25 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2169
Abstract
A hemipyridine solvate of bis(pyridine)silver(I) perchlorate, [Agpy2ClO4]·0.5py (compound 1) was prepared and characterized by single crystal X-ray analysis and vibrational spectroscopy (R and low-temperature Raman). Compound 1 was prepared via the trituration of [Agpy2ClO4] [...] Read more.
A hemipyridine solvate of bis(pyridine)silver(I) perchlorate, [Agpy2ClO4]·0.5py (compound 1) was prepared and characterized by single crystal X-ray analysis and vibrational spectroscopy (R and low-temperature Raman). Compound 1 was prepared via the trituration of [Agpy2ClO4] and 4[Agpy2ClO4]·[Agpy4]ClO4 (as the source of the solvate pyridine) in a mixed solvent of acetone:benzene =1:1 (v = v) at room temperature. The monoclinic crystals of compound 1 were found to be isomorphic with the analogous permanganate complex (a = 19.1093(16) Å, b = 7.7016(8) Å, c = 20.6915(19) Å, β = 105.515(7)°; space group: C2/c). Two [Agpy2]+ cations formed a dimeric unit [Agpy2ClO4]2, and each silver ion was connected to two ClO4 anions via oxygen atoms. The Ag∙∙∙Ag distance was 3.3873(5) Å, the perchlorate ions were coordinated to silver ions, and the Ag∙∙∙O distances were 2.840(2) Å and 2.8749(16) Å in the centrosymmetric rectangle of Ag-O-Ag-O. The stoichiometric ratio of the monomer [Agpy2ClO4] and the solvent pyridine was 1:0.5. The guest pyridine occupied 527.2 Å3, which was 18.0% of the volume of the unit cell. There was no additional residual solvent-accessible void in the crystal lattice. The solvate pyridine was connected via its a-CH to one of the O atoms of the perchlorate anion. Correlation analysis, as well as IR and low-temperature Raman studies, were performed to assign all perchlorate and pyridine vibrational modes. The solvate and coordinated pyridine bands in the IR and Raman spectra were not distinguishable. A perchlorate contribution via Ag-O coordination to low-frequency Raman bands was also assigned. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Complexes with N-donor Ligands)
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