Spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of [Mn(phen)(CO)3(imidazole)](SO3CF3) complexes

The spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of [Mn(phen)(CO)3(L)]+ type complexes where L is an imidazole or an imidazole derivative containing a methyl, phenyl or NO2 group, have been investigated. Introduction of the substituents to the σ-donor ligand has been found to produce significant changes in the electrochemical behaviour without significantly altering the fundamental electronic structure of the complexes. The oxidation potentials of the fac-[Mn(phen)(CO)3L]+ and mer-[Mn(phen)(CO)3L]+ isomers are very different, allowing detailed electrochemical studies to be made. Cyclic voltammetry of both the fac and mer isomers provides a complete description of a cyclic process involving the following reactions.