Ligand-directed synthesis of {Mn} twisted bow-ties.

Two isostructural polymetallic complexes [Mn(μ3 -O)2 (CH3 COO)4 (L1)4 ]- and [Mn(μ3 -O)2 (CH3 COO)4 (L2)4 ]- have been synthesised by using two Schiff base ligands derived from 3,5-diamino-1,2,4-triazole, following two different preparative routes, either using the pre-formed ligand (for L1) or via a metal-mediated template synthesis (for L2). The {Mn} structure is unusual, being based on two corner-sharing perpendicular {Mn3 } triangles forming a twisted bow-tie. The magnetic studies reveal antiferromagnetic coupling between Mn(iii) ions while electrochemical experiments are consistent with a quasi-reversible Mn(iii)↔Mn(iv) redox process at the central manganese ion.