Synthesis and characterization of [FeFe]-hydrogenase models mediated by a 1,2,4-trithiolane derivative: Insight into molecular structures and electrochemical characteristics

Abstract

In this report two diiron hexacarbonyl complexes containing sulphur-rich heterocycles have been prepared as [FeFe]-hydrogenase mimics. These two complexes are obtained from the reaction of Fe3(CO)12 with 3,11-dibenzyl-7,14,15-trithia-3,11-diazadispiro[5.1.58.26]pentadecane. They have been characterized by different spectroscopic techniques (1H and 13C{1H} NMR, IR and MS) as well as X-ray diffraction analysis. Moreover, we have investigated the influence of the sulphur-rich heterocycles linker on the redox potentials of the complexes and their catalytic ability in the presence of acetic acid (AcOH) by applying cyclic voltammetry.