{Gd^III₇} and {Gd^III₁₄} Cluster Formation Based on a Rhodamine 6G Ligand with a Magnetocaloric Effect

Area of Science:

• Inorganic Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Magnetochemistry

Background:

• Gadolinium (Gd) complexes are investigated for their magnetic properties.
• Developing novel molecular magnetic materials is crucial for technological advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel heptanuclear {Gd^III₇} and tetradecanuclear {Gd^III₁₄} clusters.
• To evaluate the magnetic entropy changes of these synthesized gadolinium clusters.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of {Gd^III₇} and {Gd^III₁₄} clusters using rhodamine 6G ligand (HL).
• Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction and other analytical techniques.
• Magnetic property measurements, including magnetic entropy change calculations.

Main Results:

• Complex 1 ({Gd^III₇}) displays a rare disc-shaped structure with specific bridging ligands.
• Complex 2 ({Gd^III₁₄}) features an unusual three-layer double sandwich structure with a central μ₆-O^2- ion.
• Complex 1 shows a magnetic entropy change of 17.4 J kg^-1 K^-1 at 3 K and 5 T.
• Complex 2 exhibits a higher magnetic entropy change of 22.3 J kg^-1 K^-1 at 2 K and 5 T.

Conclusions:

• The successful synthesis of unique gadolinium cluster structures is reported.
• Both complexes demonstrate significant potential for magnetic cooling applications due to their notable magnetic entropy changes.
• The findings contribute to the field of molecular magnetism and the design of advanced magnetic materials.