Redox-Triggered Molecular Movement in a Multicomponent Metal Complex in Solution and in the Solid State

The CuI and CuII complexes of the new 1,8-diferro-cenylmethyl-4,11-dimethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetra-decane ligand (denoted
L) have been isolated and characterized by X-ray structure
determination and electrochemical studies. The CuI complex
presents an unprecedented stability toward dioxygen. The two
complexes adopt two energetically distinct and stable geometries,
which differ mainly by the relative positioning of the substituents
above or below the cyclam plane. Triggered by a copper-centered
electron transfer, a fast and reversible motion of the noncoordinating
subunits is obtained in homogeneous solution and in the solid
state.