Kinetic stabilization of a Ni(ii) bis(dithiobenzoate)-type complex achieved using three-dimensional insulation by a [1]rotaxane structure.

We describe herein the synthesis of a Ni(ii) bis(dithiobenzoate)-type complex three-dimensionally insulated by a [1]rotaxane structure to reveal the importance of the insulation. Under cyclic voltammetry conditions, the complex showed a stable and reversible redox behavior in contrast to a non-insulated reference complex, clearly demonstrating the effectiveness of the rotaxane-type insulation as a new method of kinetic metal complex stabilization.