The first macrocyclic “layer-to-layer” type tetranuclear copper(II) complex: structure, stability and unprecedented catalase-like activity

The macrocyclic tetranuclear copper(II) complex [L2Cu4(μ-CO3)2](ClO4)4·4H2O is synthesized by [2 + 2] condensation of the organic ligand L and a rational [2 + 2] assembly of the polynuclear complex; the structure, stability and catalase-like activity are investigated.