Structural diversity in schiff base complexes of Ga(III), In(III), Pb(II), and Zn(II): Precursors and model systems for conducting metallopolymers

A variety of Schiff base ligands have been synthesized in an effort to study the coordination chemistry of these ligands when reacted with various metal salts. By varying the structural features of the ligand as well as the synthetic route used to make the corresponding metal complexes, a number of different structural motifs have been observed. Schiff base ligands were chosen due to their ease of synthesis as well as their ability to bind a variety of metal salts. These complexes serve as model systems for and precursors to monomers for the preparation of conducting metallopolymers. Further functionalization of the Schiff base ligand with bithiophene end groups has resulted in electropolymerizable monomers. When polymerized these monomers give conducting metallopolymers which can then be used for a variety of applications. The products were characterized by multinuclear NMR, UV-Vis, and IR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Solid-state structures were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Electropolymerization yielded novel conducting polymers with embedded metals.