The 2D and 3D compounds [M(2)bpm(dea)(4)]center dot nH(2)O (M = Ni, Zn; bpm = bipyrimidine; dca = dicyanamide; n=0, 1) - Structural analysis and magnetic properties

The combined use of bpm (2,2'-bipyrimidine) and dca (dicyanamide) has led t o the preparation of two compounds of general formula [M(2)bpm(dca)(4)]. nH (2)O. Compound 1 (M = Ni, n = 1) exhibits a 2D layered structure based on l adder-like moieties. These units, whose steps are bpm groups, extend throug h single dca bridges, the connection between distinct ladder-like units tak ing place through double dca bridges. Compound 2 (M = Zn, n = 0) consists o f a 3D structure based on the same type of ladder-like moieties that are co nnected to another four on the plane perpendicular to the extension of the ladders.