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Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Synthesis of a Water-soluble Metal–Organic Complex Array
Published on: October 8, 2016
A macrocyclic approach to transition metal and uranyl Pacman complexes
1EaStCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Joseph Black Building, The King's Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh, UK EH9 3JJ. jason.love@ed.ac.uk
Molecular multimetallic complexes using novel ligands offer precise control over metal aggregation for sustainable energy applications. This research details the development and reactivity of these unique Pacman complexes.
Area of Science:
- Coordination Chemistry
- Sustainable Energy
Background:
- Multielectron redox chemistry is crucial for sustainable energy, involving small molecules like O2, H2O, N2, CO2, and CH4.
- Controlling metal cation aggregation in multimetallic compounds is challenging but essential for facilitating redox reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development of pyrrole-based macrocyclic ligands for managing metal aggregation.
- To highlight the structural and reaction chemistry of molecular multimetallic complexes derived from these ligands.
Main Methods:
- Design and synthesis of compartmentalised Schiff-base calixpyrrole ligands.
- Formation and characterization of rigid "Pacman" multimetallic complexes.
- Investigation of the reactivity of these complexes across the periodic table.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful management of metal aggregation using designed macrocyclic ligands.
- Revealed the formation of rigid Pacman complexes with well-defined metallo microenvironments.
- Showcased diverse reaction chemistry of these complexes with various metal ions.
Conclusions:
- Pyrrole-based macrocyclic ligands provide a robust platform for constructing molecular multimetallic complexes.
- These complexes offer precise control over metal coordination and reactivity for multielectron redox processes.
- The developed Pacman complexes hold significant potential for applications in sustainable energy technologies.
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