Building blocks for self-assembly: half-sandwich complexes of the [Ru([9]aneS(3))(2+) metal center

The X-ray crystal structure of the complex [([9]aneS(3))Ru(PhCN)(3)][PF6] ( 1) is reported. The metal coordination geometry of this structure is compar ed to that of the previously reported, [([9]aneS(3))Ru(py)(3)][PF6](2). Thi s comparison clarifies conditions required for the successful synthesis of suitable, structurally robust building blocks for the future synthesis of h igher order oligomeric structures. As a first approach to this strategy, th e synthesis, and physical properties, of several appropriately functionalis ed half-sandwich complexes of the [Ru([9]aneS(3))](2+) metal center are rep orted. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.