Anion controlled structural variation of silver(I) coordination polymers with a new donor–π–acceptor ligand

A new ligand with D–π–A symmetry has been synthesized in high yield by Knoevenagel condensation of 4-(dimethylamino)benzaldehyde with malononitrile. The ligand forms coordination polymers with Ag(I) salts at room temperature where the ultimate structure is dependent upon the counter anion. With AgNO3, a 2D tubular structure is formed where the nitrate anions bridge two Ag(I) centers. When AgBF4 is used, a 1D grid structure results but with AgOTf, a 1D zigzag structure is formed. Thus, anions control the structure of the coordination polymers formed. Each coordination polymer affords high TPA activity that can be correlated with the structure of the polymer.