Multi-metal complexation and partially templated synthesis of metal clusters by using triangular trisaloph ligands

On the basis of the concept of partial template, triangular trisaloph ligands 2a and 2b reacted with excess ZnII to give heptanuclear Zn clusters with a similar geometry. The Zn complex of 2c, which was difficult to be prepared according to a previous procedure, was synthesized in high yield in a one-pot fashion. Various multi-nuclear complexes of 2a with Mn, Co, Ni, and Cu were also produced, although the trinuclear MnII and CoII complexes were smoothly oxidized to the MnIII and CoIII complexes.