Functional models for type-2 and type-3 copper oxidases: Self-assembled molecular association in [Cu(L)(Hdpa)](ClO4) determines the catalytic activity

Abstract

Mononuclear copper(II) complex [Cu(L)(Hdpa)](ClO4) (1), where H(L) is tridentate NNO donor ligand and Hdpa is 2,2′-dipyridylamine has been isolated. The X-ray crystal structure of 1 possesses a CuN4O chromophore with square pyramidal (4 + 1) coordination geometry. It displays self-assembled molecular association viz., (a) intermolecular NH⋯O hydrogen bonding and (b) inter-pair π-π anti-parallel stacking. The complex is catalytically effective in the oxidation of benzylamine to benzaldehyde and 3,5-di-tert-butylcatechol to 3,5-di-tert-butyl-o-quinone, thus act as a functional model for amine oxidase and catechol oxidase respectively.