Second generation of a polypyridine ligand to mimic enzymes containing non-heme iron centers

A new tetrapyridyl ligand (BDPEA) and the corresponding di-iron(III) mu -ox o complex were synthesized. The iron complex structure, determined by X-ray crystallography, exhibited the dinuclear core [Fe-2(III)(BDPEA)(2)(mu -O)( NO3)(2)](NO3)(2) (1). With monopersulfate as oxidant, this complex catalyze d the conversion of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and catechol. with a better activ ity and an enhanced life-time compared to the previously reported complex [ Fe-III(BDPMA)](NO3)(3) (2) (BDPMA: bis[di(2-pyridyl)methyl]amine) which con tained two fragile benzylic C-H bonds on the tetrapyridyl ligand. (C) 2000 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.