Magnetic Anisotropy and Relaxation in Four-Coordinate Cobalt(II) Single-Ion Magnets with a [CoIIO4] Core

A mononuclear four-coordinate Co(II) complex with a [CoIIO4] core, namely, PPN[Li(MeOH)4][Co(L)2] (1) (PPN = bis(phosphoranediyl)iminium; H2L = perfluoropinacol), has been studied by X-ray crystallography, magnetic characterization, and theoretical calculations. This complex presents a severely distorted coordination geometry. The O-Co-O bite angle is 83.42°/83.65°, and the dihedral twist angle between the O-Co-O chelate planes is 55.6°. The structural distortion results in a large easy-axis magnetic anisotropy with D = -104(1) cm-1 and a transverse component with |E| = +4(2) cm-1. Alternating current (ac) susceptibility measurements demonstrate that 1 exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization at zero static field. However, the frequency-dependent out-of-phase (χ"M) susceptibilities of 1 at 0 Oe do not show a characteristic maximum. Upon the application of a dc field or the dilution with a diamagnetic Zn matrix, the quantum tunneling of magnetization (QTM) process can be successfully suppressed. Notably, after dilution with the Zn matrix, the obtained sample exhibits a structure different from that of the pristine complex. In this altered sample, the asymmetric unit does not contain the Li(MeOH)4+ cation, resulting in an O-Co-O bite angle of 86.05° and a dihedral twist angle of 75.84°, thereby leading to an approximate D2d symmetry. Although such differences are not desirable for magnetic studies, this study still gives some insights. Theoretical calculations reveal that the D parameter is governed by the O-Co-O bite angle, in line with our previous report for other tetrahedral Co(II) complex with a [CoIIN4] core. On the other hand, the rhombic component is found to increase as the dihedral angle deviates from 90°. These findings provide valuable guidelines for fine-tuning the magnetic properties of Co(II) complexes.

Modulated spin dynamics of [Co2] coordination helicates via differential strand composition

Coordination supramolecular chemistry provides a versatile entry into materials with functionalities of technological relevance at the nanoscale. Here, we describe how two different bis-pyrazolylpyridine ligands (L1 and L2) assemble with Co(II) ions into dinuclear triple-stranded helicates, in turn, encapsulating different anionic guests. These constructs are described as (Cl@[Co2(L1)3])3+, (SiF6@[Co2(L1)(L2)3])2+ and (ClO4@[Co2(L2)3])3+, as established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Extensive magnetic and calorimetric measurements, numerical treatments and theoretical calculations reveal that the individual Co(II) centers of these supramolecular entities exhibit field-induced slow relaxation of magnetization, dominated by direct and Raman mechanisms. While the small variations in the spin dynamics are not easily correlated with the evident structural differences among the three species, the specific heat measurements suggest two vibronic pathways of magnetic relaxation: one that would be associated with the host lattice and another linked with the guest.

Unravelling the Highest Magnetic Anisotropy Among all the n-Shells in 20 Metallocene

Single-molecule magnets (SMMs) with a large magnetization reversal barrier are predominated by the lanthanide systems due to their strong spin-orbit coupling (SOC). However, the transition metals have also emerged as potential contenders and the largest magnetic anisotropy has been identified for a cobalt system among any d-series-based SMMs (Bunting et al. Science 2018, 362, eaat7319). In this work, we have explored the magnetic anisotropy in highly axial ligand field systems of metallocene, having different d-subshell (3d4, 4d4, and 5d4). The wave function-based multireference methods including static and dynamic electron correlations have been employed to investigate the zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameters. Here, we report exceptionally large magnetic anisotropy for a 5d complex of [WCp2]0 with the highest energy barrier that is nearly twice as high as the previous record value for the Co complex. We have also observed that the axial ZFS parameter (D) is increasing down the group in the order of 3d < 4d < 5d, pertaining to a large SOC.

Unlocking the Metalation Applications of TMP-powered Fe and Co(II) bis(amides): Synthesis, Structure and Mechanistic Insights

Typified by LiTMP and TMPMgCl.LiCl, (TMP=2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidide), s-block metal amides have found widespread applications in arene deprotonative metalation. On the contrary, transition metal amides lack sufficient basicity to activate these substrates. Breaking new ground in this field, here we present the synthesis and full characterisation of earth-abundant transition metals M(TMP)2 (M=Fe, Co). Uncovering a new reactivity profile towards fluoroarenes, these amide complexes can promote direct M-H exchange processes regioselectively using one or two of their basic amide arms. Remarkably, even when using a perfluorinated substrate, selective C-H metalation occurs leaving C-F bonds intact. Their kinetic basicity can be boosted by LiCl or NBu4Cl additives which enables formation of kinetically activated ate species. Combining spectroscopic and structural studies with DFT calculations, mechanistic insights have been gained on how these low polarity metalation processes take place. M(TMP)2 can also be used to access ferrocene and cobaltocene by direct deprotonation of cyclopentadiene and undergo efficient CO2 insertion of both amide groups under mild reaction conditions.

Oxygen-Donor Metalloligands Induce Slow Magnetization Relaxation in Zero Field for a Cobalt(II) Complex with {CoO4} Motif

Most 3d metal-based single-molecule magnets (SMMs) use N-ligands or ligands with even softer donors to impart a particular coordination geometry and increase the zero-field splitting parameter |D|, while complexes with hard O-donor ligands showing slow magnetization relaxation are rare. Here, we report that a diamagnetic NiII complex of a tetradentate ligand featuring two N-heterocyclic carbene and two alkoxide-O donors, [LO,ONi], can serve as a {O,O'}-chelating metalloligand to give a trinuclear complex [(LO,ONi)Co(LO,ONi)](OTf)2 (2) with an elongated tetrahedral {CoIIO4} core, D = -74.3 cm-1, and a spin reversal barrier Ueff = 86.9 cm-1 in the absence of an external dc field. The influence of diamagnetic NiII on the electronic structure of the {CoO4} unit in comparison to [Co(OPh)4]2- (A) has been probed with multireference ab initio calculations. These reveal a contrapolarizing effect of the NiII, which forms stronger metal-alkoxide bonds than the central CoII, inducing a change in ligand field splitting and a 5-fold increase in the magnetic anisotropy in 2 compared to A, with an easy magnetization axis along the Ni-Co-Ni vector. This demonstrates a strategy to enhance the SMM properties of 3d metal complexes with hard O-donors by modulating the ligand field character via the coordination of diamagnetic ions and the benefit of robust metalloligands in that regard.

How the spin state tunes the slow magnetic relaxation field dependence in spin crossover cobalt(II) complexes

A novel family of cobalt(II) compounds with tridentate pyridine-2,6-diiminephenyl type ligands featuring electron-withdrawing substituents of general formula [Co(n-XPhPDI)2](ClO4)2·S [n-XPhPDI = 2,6-bis(N-n-halophenylformimidoyl)pyridine with n = 4 (1-3) and 3 (4); X = I (1), Br (2 and 4) and Cl (3); S = MeCN (1 and 2) and EtOAc (3)] has been synthesised and characterised by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, electron paramagnetic resonance, and static (dc) and dynamic (ac) magnetic measurements combined with theoretical calculations. The structures of 1-4 consist of mononuclear bis(chelating) cobalt(II) complex cations, [CoII(n-XPhPDI)2]2+, perchlorate anions, and acetonitrile (1 and 2) or ethyl acetate (3) molecules of crystallisation. This unique series of mononuclear six-coordinate octahedral cobalt(II) complexes displays both thermally-induced low-spin (LS)/high-spin (HS) transition and field-induced slow magnetic relaxation in both LS and HS states. A complete LS ↔ HS transition occurs for 1 and 2, while it is incomplete for 4, one-third of the complexes being HS at low temperatures. In contrast, 3 remains HS in all the temperature range. 1 and 2 show dual spin relaxation dynamics under the presence of an applied dc magnetic field (Hdc), with the occurrence of faster- (FR) and slower-relaxing (SR) processes at lower (Hdc = 1.0 kOe) and higher fields (Hdc = 2.5 kOe), respectively. On the contrary, 3 and 4 exhibit only SR and FR relaxations, regardless of Hdc. Overall, the distinct field-dependence of the single-molecule magnet (SMM) behaviour along with this family of spin-crossover (SCO) cobalt(II)-n-XPhPDI complexes is dominated by Raman mechanisms and, occasionally, with additional temperature-independent Intra-Kramer [LS or HS (D > 0)] or Quantum Tunneling of Magnetisation mechanisms [HS (D < 0)] also contributing.

Electronic Structure of Three-Coordinate FeII and CoII β-Diketiminate Complexes

The β-diketiminate supporting group, [ArNCRCHCRNAr]-, stabilizes low coordination number complexes. Four such complexes, where R = tert-butyl, Ar = 2,6-diisopropylphenyl, are studied: (nacnactBu)ML, where M = FeII, CoII and L = Cl, CH3. These are denoted FeCl, FeCH3, CoCl, and CoCH3 and have been previously reported and structurally characterized. The two FeII complexes (S = 2) have also been previously characterized by Mössbauer spectroscopy, but only indirect assessment of the ligand-field splitting and zero-field splitting (zfs) parameters was available. Here, EPR spectroscopy is used, both conventional field-domain for the CoII complexes (with S = 3/2) and frequency-domain, far-infrared magnetic resonance spectroscopy (FIRMS) for all four complexes. The CoII complexes were also studied by magnetometry. These studies allow accurate determination of the zfs parameters. The two FeII complexes are similar with nearly axial zfs and large magnitude zfs given by D = -37 ± 1 cm-1 for both. The two CoII complexes likewise exhibit large and nearly axial zfs, but surprisingly, CoCl has positive D = +55 cm-1 while CoCH3 has negative D = -49 cm-1. Theoretical methods were used to probe the electronic structures of the four complexes, which explain the experimental spectra and the zfs parameters.

Spectroscopic techniques to probe magnetic anisotropy and spin-phonon coupling in metal complexes

Magnetism of molecular quantum materials such as single-molecule magnets (SMMs) has been actively studied for potential applications in the new generation of high-density data storage using SMMs and quantum information science. Magnetic anisotropy and spin-phonon coupling are two key properties of d- and f-metal complexes. Here, phonons refer to both intermolecular and intramolecular vibrations. Direct determination of magnetic anisotropy and experimental studies of spin-phonon coupling are critical to the understanding of molecular magnetism. This article discusses our recent approach in using three complementary techniques, far-IR and Raman magneto-spectroscopies (FIRMS and RaMS, respectively) and inelastic neutron scatterings (INS), to determine magnetic excited states. Spin-phonon couplings are observed in FIRMS and RaMS. DFT phonon calculations give energies and symmetries of phonons as well as calculated INS spectra which help identify magnetic peaks in experimental INS spectra.

Quantifying the influence of 3d-4s mixing on linearly coordinated metal-ions by L2,3-edge XAS and XMCD

The mixing valence d and s orbitals are predicted to strongly influence the electronic structure of linearly coordinated molecules, including transition metals, lanthanides and actinides. In specific cases, novel magnetic properties, such as single-ion magnetic coercivity or long spin decoherence times, ensue. Inspired by how the local coordination symmetry can engender such novel phenomena, in this study, we focus our attention on dopants (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) in lithium nitride to accept innovation from molecular magnetism in a high symmetry P6/mmm solid-state crystal. The linear coordination environment results in strong 3d-4s mixing, proving to be an ideal series to investigate the role of d-s mixing and bonding on electronic structure and magnetism. It is shown that L2,3-edge XAS can be applied to experimentally identify the presence of 3d-4s mixing and the influence this has on the ligand-field splitting. XMCD specifies how spin-orbit coupling is affected. The combined spectroscopies are analysed to determine the effect of 4s mixing with support from ab initio calculations. The results provide new insight of relevance to future applications, including quantum information processing and the sustainable replacement of rare earths in magnets.

Spin canting and slow magnetic relaxation in mononuclear cobalt(II) sulfadiazine ternary complexes

Monomeric [Co(SDZ)2phen] (1) and [Co(SDZ)(bq)Cl] (2) complexes (SDZ = sulfadiazine, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, and bq = 2,2'-biquinoline) have been synthesized and characterized. X-ray diffraction studies indicate that SDZ acts as a bidentate ligand coordinating through the sulfonamide and the pyrimidine N atoms in both compounds. In complex 1, the coordination sphere consists of two SDZ ligands and a bis-chelating phen ligand, giving rise to a CoN6 coordination sphere. On the other hand, 2 has a CoN4Cl core, with two N-atoms from SDZ and two from the bq ligand. Both compounds have been studied by dc and ac magnetometry and shown to display slow magnetic relaxation under an optimum external dc field (1 kOe) at low temperatures. Moreover, compound 2 displays long range magnetic ordering provided by spin-canted antiferromagnetism, which has been characterized by further field-dependent magnetic susceptibility measurements, FC/ZFC curves, hysteresis loops and frequency-independent ac curves. The signs of the calculated D parameters, positive in 1 and negative in 2, have been rationalized according to the two lowest-lying transitions in the orbital energy diagrams derived from ab initio ligand field theory (AILFT). In a subsequent attempt to reveal the possible hidden zero-field SMM behaviour, Ni(II)-based 3 and Co(II)-doped Ni(II)-based (with a Ni : Co ratio of 0.9 : 0.1) heterometallic compound 2Ni were synthesized.

Increasing the Magnetic Blocking Temperature of Single-Molecule Magnets

The synthesis of single-molecule magnets (SMMs), magnetic complexes capable of retaining magnetization blocking for a long time at elevated temperatures, has been a major concern for magnetochemists over the last three decades. In this review, we describe basic SMMs and the different approaches that allow high magnetization-blocking temperatures to be reached. We focus on the basic factors affecting magnetization blocking, magnetic axiality and the height of the blocking barrier, which can be used to group different families of complexes in terms of their SMM efficiency. Finally, we discuss several practical routes for the design of mono- and polynuclear complexes that could be applied in memory devices.

A Dy-based single ion magnet in a SrLaGaO4 matrix: enhanced parameters in an expanded crystal lattice

Dy3+ doped SrLaGaO4 exhibits unusually slow relaxation of magnetization determined by two widely separated excited Kramers doublets with a second remagnetization energy barrier of 223 cm-1. This value considerably exceeds that for analogous Ca(Y,Dy)AlO4 in spite of the apparently enlarged Dy3+ coordination sphere.

Trigonal prismatic coordination geometry imparted by a macrocyclic ligand: an approach to large axial magnetic anisotropy for Co(II)

Large uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, expressed by a negative value of the axial zero-field splitting parameter D, has been achieved in a series of trigonal prismatic Co(II) complexes with the general formula [Co(L)X]Y, where L = 1,5,13,17,22-pentaazatricyclo[15.2.2.17,11]docosa-7,9,11(22)-triene, X = Cl-(1a,b), Br-(2), N3-(3), NCO-(4), NCS-(5), NCSe-(6), and Y = Cl-(1), Br-(2), NCS-(4), NCSe-(5), ClO4-(3,6). Complexes 1-6 are six-coordinate with the distorted trigonal prismatic geometry imparted by the pentadentate pyridine-/piperazine-based macrocyclic ligand L and by one monovalent coligand X-. Based on magnetic studies, all complexes 1-6 exhibit strong magnetic anisotropy with negative D-values ranging from about -20 to -41 cm-1. This variation in D (i.e. the increase of magnetic anisotropy) parallels the trend obtained by theoretical calculations and the lesser distortion of the coordination sphere with respect to the trigonal prismatic reference geometry. AC magnetic susceptibility investigations revealed field-induced single-molecule magnet behaviour for all complexes except Cl- derivative 1. The series investigated represents a rare example of Co(II) complexes with a robust trigonal prismatic geometry.

Toward Ultimate Memory with Single-Molecule Multiferroics

The demand for high-density storage is urgent in the current era of data explosion. Recently, several single-molecule (-atom) magnets and ferroelectrics have been reported to be promising candidates for high-density storage. As another promising candidate, single-molecule multiferroics are not only small in size but also possess ferroelectric and magnetic orderings, which can sometimes be strongly coupled and used as data storage to realize the combination of electric writing and magnetic reading. However, they have been rarely proposed and have never been experimentally reported. Here, by building Hamiltonian models, we propose a new model of single-molecule multiferroics in which electric dipoles and magnetic moments are parallel and can rotate with the rotation of the single molecule. Furthermore, by performing spin-lattice dynamics simulations, we reveal the conditions (e.g., large enough single-ion anisotropy and an appropriate electric field) under which the new single-molecule multiferroic can arise. Based on this model, as well as first-principles calculations, a realistic example of Co(NH3)4N@SWCNT is constructed and numerically confirmed to demonstrate the feasibility of the new single-molecule multiferroic model. Our work not only sheds light on the discovery of single-molecule multiferroics but also provides a new guideline to design multifunctional materials for ultimate memory devices.

Zero-Field SMM Behavior Triggered by Magnetic Exchange Interactions and a Collinear Arrangement of Local Anisotropy Axes in a Linear Co3II Complex

A new linear trinuclear Co(II)3 complex with a formula of [{Co(μ-L)}2Co] has been prepared by self-assembly of Co(II) ions and the N3O3-tripodal Schiff base ligand H3L, which is obtained from the condensation of 1,1,1-tris(aminomethyl)ethane and salicylaldehyde. Single X-ray diffraction shows that this compound is centrosymmetric with triple-phenolate bridging groups connecting neighboring Co(II) ions, leading to a paddle-wheel-like structure with a pseudo-C3 axis lying in the Co-Co-Co direction. The Co(II) ions at both ends of the Co(II)3 molecule exhibit distorted trigonal prismatic CoN3O3 geometry, whereas the Co(II) at the middle presents an elongated trigonal antiprismatic CoO6 geometry. The combined analysis of the magnetic data and theoretical calculations reveal strong easy-axis magnetic anisotropy for both types of Co(II) ions (|D| values higher than 115 cm-1) with the local anisotropic axes lying on the pseudo-C3 axis of the molecule. The magnetic exchange interaction between the middle and ends Co(II) ions, extracted by using either a Hamiltonian accounting for the isotropic magnetic coupling and ZFS or the Lines' model, was found to be medium to strong and antiferromagnetic in nature, whereas the interaction between the external Co(II) ions is weak antiferromagnetic. Interestingly, the compound exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization and open hysteresis at zero field and therefore SMM behavior. The significant magnetic exchange coupling found for [{Co(μ-L)}2Co] is mainly responsible for the quenching of QTM, which combined with the easy-axis local anisotropy of the CoII ions and the collinearity of their local anisotropy axes with the pseudo-C3 axis favors the observation of SMM behavior at zero field.

Tuning Magnetic Anisotropy in Co(II) Tetrahedral Carbazole-Modified Phosphine Oxide Single-Ion Magnets: Importance of Structural Distortion versus Heavy-Ion Effect

Three mononuclear cobalt(II) tetrahedral complexes [Co(CzPh2PO)2X2] (CzPh2PO = (9H-carbazol-9-yl)diphenylphosphine oxide and X = Cl (1), Br (2), I (3)) have been synthesized using a simple synthetic approach to examine their single-ion magnetic (SIM) behavior. A detailed study of the variation in the dynamic magnetic properties of the Co(II) ion in a tetrahedral ligand field has been carried out by the change of the halide ligand. The axial zero-field splitting parameter D was found to vary from -16.4 cm-1 in 1 to -13.8 cm-1 in 2 and +14.6 cm-1 in 3. All the new complexes exhibit field-induced SIM behavior. The results obtained from ab initio CASSF calculations match well with the experimental data, revealing how halide ions induce a change in the D value as we move from Cl- to I-. The ab initio calculations further reveal that the change in the sign of D is due to the multideterminant characteristics of the ground state wave function of 1 and 2, while single-determinant characteristics are instead observed for 3. To gain a better understanding of the relationship between the structural distortion and the sign and magnitude of D values, magnetostructural D correlations were developed using angular relationships, revealing the importance of structural distortions over the heavy halide effect in controlling the sign of D values. This study broadens the scope of employing electronically and sterically modified phosphine oxide ligands in building new types of air-stable Co(II) SIMs.

Binuclear cobalt(II) and two-dimensional manganese(II) coordination compounds self-assembled by mixed bipyridine-tetracarboxylic ligands with single-ion magnet properties

A cobalt(II) complex and manganese(II) coordination polymer, formulated as [Co2(H2btca)(mbpy)4][H2btca]·4H2O (1) and {Mn2(btca)(mbpy)2(H2O)2}n (2) (H4btca = 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylic acid; mbpy = 4,4'-dimethyl-2,2'-bipyridyl), constructed by mixed bipyridine-tetracarboxylic ligands were synthesized and characterized. Single-crystal structural analyses reveal that compound 1 is a discrete neutral binuclear molecule, while compound 2 is a two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymer. The metal ions in these compounds are well isolated, with an intramolecular Co2+⋯Co2+ distance of 9.170 Å for 1 and Mn2+⋯Mn2+ separation of 10.984 and 11.164 Å for 2 due to the bulk tetracarboxylic linker. This isolation gives rise to a single-ion magnetism origin of the compounds. Magnetic studies reveal a large zero-field splitting parameter D of 82.6 cm-1 for 1, while a very small D of 0.42 cm-1 was observed for 2. Interestingly, dynamic ac magnetic measurements exhibited slow magnetic relaxation under the external dc field of the two compounds, revealing the field-supported single-ion magnet (SIM) of 1 and 2. The detailed theoretical calculations were further applied to understand the electronic structures, magnetic anisotropy, and relaxation dynamics in 1 and 2. Combined with our recently reported compound (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem., 2022, e202200354), the foregoing results provide not only a rare binuclear cobalt(II) SIM and the first 2D manganese(II) SIM coordination polymer but also a bipyridine-tetracarboxylic ligand approach toward novel SIMs.

Tetracoordinate Co(II) complexes with semi-coordination as stable single-ion magnets for deposition on graphene

We present a theoretical and experimental study of two tetracoordinate Co(II)-based complexes with semi-coordination interactions, i.e., non-covalent interactions involving the central atom. We argue that such interactions enhance the thermal and structural stability of the compounds, making them appropriate for deposition on substrates, as demonstrated by their successful deposition on graphene. DC magnetometry and high-frequency electron spin resonance (HF-ESR) experiments revealed an axial magnetic anisotropy and weak intermolecular antiferromagnetic coupling in both compounds, supported by theoretical predictions from complete active space self-consistent field calculations complemented by N-electron valence state second-order perturbation theory (CASSCF-NEVPT2), and broken-symmetry density functional theory (BS-DFT). AC magnetometry demonstrated that the compounds are field-induced single-ion magnets (SIMs) at applied static magnetic fields, with slow relaxation of magnetization governed by a combination of quantum tunneling, Orbach, and direct relaxation mechanisms. The structural stability under ambient conditions and after deposition was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy. Theoretical modeling by DFT of different configurations of these systems on graphene revealed n-type doping of graphene originating from electron transfer from the deposited molecules, confirmed by electrical transport measurements and Raman spectroscopy.

Understanding electrostatics and covalency effects in highly anisotropic organometallic sandwich dysprosium complexes [Dy(CmRm)2] (where R = H, SiH3, CH3 and m = 4 to 9): a computational perspective

In this article, we have thoroughly studied the electronic structure and 4f-ligand covalency of six mononuclear dysprosium organometallic sandwich complexes [Dy(CmRm)2]n+/- (where R = H, SiH3, CH3; m = 4 to 9; n = 1, 3) using both the scalar relativistic density functional and complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) and N-electron valence perturbation theory (NEVPT2) method to shed light on the ligand field effects in fine-tuning the magnetic anisotropy of these complexes. Energy decomposition analysis (EDA) and ab initio-based ligand field theory AILFT calculations predict the sizable 4f-ligand covalency in all these complexes. The analysis of CASSCF/NEVPT2 computed spin-Hamiltonian (SH) parameters indicates the stabilization of mJ |±15/2〉 for [Dy(C4(SiH3)4)2]- (1), [Dy(C5(CH3)5)2]+ (2) and [Dy(C6H6)2]3+ (3) complexes with the Ucal value of 1867.5, 1621.5 and 1070.8 cm-1, respectively. On the other hand, we observed mJ |±9/2〉 as the ground state for [Dy(C7H7)2]3- (4) and [Dy(C8H8)2]- (5) complexes with significantly smaller Ucal values of 237.1 and 38.6 cm-1 respectively. For the nine-membered ring [Dy(C9H9)2]+ (6) complex, we observed the stabilization of the mJ |±1/2〉 ground state, with the first excited state being located ∼29 cm-1 higher in energy. AILFT-NEVPT2 ligand field splitting analysis indicates that the presence of π-type 4f-ligand interactions in complexes 1-3 help generate the axial-ligand field, while the δ-type interactions in complexes 4-5 generate the equatorial ligand field despite the ligands approaching from the axial direction. As the ring size increases, φ-type interactions dominate, generating a pure equatorial ligand field stabilising mJ |±1/2〉 as the ground state for 6. Calculations suggest that the nature of the ligand field mainly governs the Ucal values in the following order: 4f-Lσ > 4f-Lπ > 4f-Lδ > 4f-Lφ. Calculations were performed by replacing ligands with CHELPG charges to access the crystal field (CF) effects which suggests the stabilization of pure mJ |±15/2〉 in all the charge-embedded models (1Q-6Q). Our findings point out that the crystal field and ligand field effects complement each other and generate a giant barrier for magnetic relaxation in the small ring complexes 1-3, while a relatively weak crystal field and adverse 4f-Lδ/4f-Lφ interactions diminish the SMM behaviour in the large ring complexes 4-6.

Field induced single ion magnet behavior in CoII complexes in a distorted square pyramidal geometry

We report three CoII-based complexes with the general formula [CoII(L)(X)2] by changing the halide/pseudo-halide ions [X = NCSe (1SeCN); Cl (2Cl) and Br (3Br)]. The obtained τ5 and CShM values confirm a distorted square pyramidal geometry around the CoII ion in all these complexes. In these three complexes, the central CoII ion is situated above the basal plane of the square pyramidal geometry. The extent of distortion from the ideal SPY-5 geometry differs upon changing the coordinating halide/pseudo-halide ion in these complexes. This essentially results in the alteration of the anisotropic parameter D and hence impacts the magnetic properties in these complexes. This phenomenon has been corroborated with the aid of theoretical investigations. All these complexes display field-induced SIM behaviour with magnetic relaxation occurring through a combination of processes depending on the applied dc magnetic field values and dilution.

Slow magnetic relaxation in 8-coordinate Mn(II) compounds

The design and synthesis of high-spin Mn(II)-based single-molecule magnets (SMMs) have not been well developed to a great extent, as compared with a large number of SMMs based on the other first row transition metal complexes. In light of our success in designing Fe(II), Co(II) and Fe(III)-based SMMs with a high coordination number of 8, it is of great interest to design Mn(II) analogues with such a strategy. In this contribution, four Mn(II) compounds, [MnII(Ln)2](ClO4)2 (1-4) were obtained from reactions of neutral tetradentate ligands, L1-L4, with hydrated MnII(ClO4)2 (L1 = 2,9-bis(carbomethoxy)-1,10-phenanthroline, L2 = 2,9-bis(carbomethoxy)-2,2'-dipyridine, L3 = N2,N9-dibutyl-1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxamide, L4 = 6,6'-bis(2-(tert-butyl)-2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-2,2'-bipyridine). Their crystal structures have been determined by X-ray crystallography and it clearly shows that the Mn(II) centers in these compounds have an oversaturated coordination number of 8. Their magnetic properties have been investigated in detail; to our surprise, all of these Mn(II) compounds show interesting slow magnetic relaxation behaviors under an applied direct current field, although they have very small negative D values.

Theoretical Magnetic Relaxation and Spin-Phonon Coupling Study in a Series of Molecular Engineering Designed Bridged Dysprosocenium Analogues

A detailed computational study of hypothetical sandwich dysprosium double-decker complexes, bridged by various numbers of aliphatic linkers, was performed to evaluate the effect of the structural modifications on their ground-state magnetic sublevels and assess their potential as candidates for single-molecule magnets (SMMs). The molecular structures of seven complexes were optimized using the TPSSh functional, and the electronic structure and magnetic properties were investigated using the complete active space self-consistent field method (CASSCF). Estimates of the magnetic moment blocking barrier (Ueff) and blocking temperatures (TB) are reported. In addition, a new method based on computed derivatives of effective demagnetization barriers Ueff with respect to vibrational normal modes was introduced and applied to evaluate the impact of spin-phonon coupling on the SMM properties. On the basis of the computed parameters, we have identified promising candidates with properties superior to those of the existing single-molecule magnets.

Alkyl Chains Modulated Magnetization Dynamics of Mononuclear Trigonal Prismatic CoII Complexes

Four benzeneboron-capped mononuclear CoII complexes with different alkyl substitutions on the fourth position of phenylboronic acid were obtained. The CoII ions are all wrapped by the pocket-like ligands and located in trigonal prismatic coordination geometries. Alternating-current magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal that they show different magnetization dynamics, such as distinct relaxation rates at the same temperature, the faster QTM rates for the ethyl and propyl substituted complexes, as well as different relaxation processes. Magneto-structural correlation study reveals that the various deviations of coordination geometry of CoII ion, diverse crystal packings and possible different vibration modes of substituents caused by modifying alkyl chains are the key factors affecting the magnetization dynamics. This work demonstrates that the alkyl chains even locating far away from the metal center can have a large impact on the magnetic behavior of the CoII complex with a very rigid coordination geometry, offering a new perspective towards transition metal based single-molecule magnets.

Creation of a Field-Induced Co(II) Single-Ion Magnet by Doping into a Zn(II) Diamagnetic Metal-Organic Framework

The combination of single-ion magnets (SIMs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is expected to produce new quantum materials. The principal issue to be solved in this regard is the development of new strategies for the synthesis of SIM-MOFs. This work demonstrates a new simple strategy for the synthesis of SIM-MOFs where a diamagnetic MOF is used as the framework into which the SIM sites are doped. 1, 0.5, and 0.2 mol% of the Co(II) ions are doped into the Zn(II) sites of [CH6 N3 ][ZnII (HCOO)3 ]. The doped Co(II) sites in the MOFs perform as SIM with a positive D term of zero-field splitting. The longest magnetic relaxation time is 150 ms (0.2 mol% Co) at 1.8 K under a static field of 0.1 T. Temperature dependency of the relaxation time suggests suppressing magnetic relaxation by reduction of spin-spin interaction upon doping in the rigid framework. Thus, this work represents a proof of concept for the creation of a single-ion doped magnet in the MOF. This simple synthetic strategy will be widely applied for the creation of quantum magnetic materials.

Lattice Solvent Engineering Improves the Stability of a Cobalt Pyrenylnitronylnitroxide Ferrimagnetic Chain

Reaction of 2-(1'-pyrenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole-3-oxide-1-oxyl (PyrNN) with [Co(hfac)₂(H₂O)₂] (hfac = hexafluoroacetylacetonate) in n-heptane solvent (hep) with a small amount of bromoform (CHBr₃ = bf) gives the 1D ferrimagnetic complex [Co(hfac)₂PyrNN]_n·0.5bf·0.5hep (Co-PyrNN·bf). This chain exhibits slow magnetic relaxation with magnetic blocking below 13.4 K, presenting a magnetic hysteresis with high coercive field (51 kOe at 5.0 K) as a hard magnet. It also shows frequency-dependent behavior consistent with one dominant relaxation process with an activation barrier of Δ_τ/k_B = (365 ± 24) K. The compound is an isomorphous variant of a previously reported ambient unstable chain made by using chloroform (CHCl₃ = cf), [Co(hfac)₂PyrNN]_n·0.5cf·0.5hep (Co-PyrNN·cf). This shows that the variation of a magnetically inactive lattice solvent can improve the stability of analogous, void space containing single-chain magnets.

Air-stable four-coordinate cobalt(ii) single-ion magnets: experimental and ab initio ligand field analyses of correlations between dihedral angles and magnetic anisotropy

For single-ion magnets (SIMs), understanding the effects of the local coordination environment and ligand field on magnetic anisotropy is key to controlling their magnetic properties. Here we present a series of tetracoordinate cobalt(ii) complexes of the general formula [^FL₂Co]X₂ (where ^FL is a bidentate diamido ligand) whose electron-withdrawing -C₆F₅ substituents confer stability under ambient conditions. Depending on the cations X, these complexes adopt structures with greatly varying dihedral twist angle δ between the N-Co-N' chelate planes in the solid state (48.0 to 89.2°). AC and DC field magnetic susceptibility measurements show this to translate into very different magnetic properties, the axial zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameter D ranging from -69 cm^-1 to -143 cm^-1 with substantial or negligible rhombic component E, respectively. A close to orthogonal arrangement of the two N,N'-chelating σ- and π-donor ligands at the Co(ii) ion is found to raise the energy barrier for magnetic relaxation to above 400 K. Multireference ab initio methods were employed to describe the complexes' electronic structures, and the results were analyzed within the framework of ab initio ligand field theory to probe the nature of the metal-ligand bonding and spin-orbit coupling. A relationship between the energy gaps of the first few electronic transitions and the ZFS was established, and the ZFS was correlated with the dihedral angle δ as well as with the metal-ligand bonding variations, viz. the two angular overlap parameters e_σ and e_πs. These findings not only give rise to a Co(ii) SIM showing open hysteresis up to 3.5 K at a sweep rate of 30 Oe s^-1, but they also provide design guidelines for Co(ii) complexes with favorable SIM signatures or even switchable magnetic relaxation properties.

On the potentially transformative role of auxiliary-field quantum Monte Carlo in quantum chemistry: A highly accurate method for transition metals and beyond

Approximate solutions to the ab initio electronic structure problem have been a focus of theoretical and computational chemistry research for much of the past century, with the goal of predicting relevant energy differences to within "chemical accuracy" (1 kcal/mol). For small organic molecules, or in general, for weakly correlated main group chemistry, a hierarchy of single-reference wave function methods has been rigorously established, spanning perturbation theory and the coupled cluster (CC) formalism. For these systems, CC with singles, doubles, and perturbative triples is known to achieve chemical accuracy, albeit at O(N⁷) computational cost. In addition, a hierarchy of density functional approximations of increasing formal sophistication, known as Jacob's ladder, has been shown to systematically reduce average errors over large datasets representing weakly correlated chemistry. However, the accuracy of such computational models is less clear in the increasingly important frontiers of chemical space including transition metals and f-block compounds, in which strong correlation can play an important role in reactivity. A stochastic method, phaseless auxiliary-field quantum Monte Carlo (ph-AFQMC), has been shown to be capable of producing chemically accurate predictions even for challenging molecular systems beyond the main group, with relatively low O(N³ - N⁴) cost and near-perfect parallel efficiency. Herein, we present our perspectives on the past, present, and future of the ph-AFQMC method. We focus on its potential in transition metal quantum chemistry to be a highly accurate, systematically improvable method that can reliably probe strongly correlated systems in biology and chemical catalysis and provide reference thermochemical values (for future development of density functionals or interatomic potentials) when experiments are either noisy or absent. Finally, we discuss the present limitations of the method and where we expect near-term development to be most fruitful.

Synergy of Magnetic Anisotropy and Ferromagnetic Interaction Triggering a Dimeric Cr(II) Zero-Field Single-Molecule Magnet

A novel Cr^II-dimeric complex, [Cr^IIN(SiⁱPr₃)₂(μ-Cl)(THF)]₂ (1), has been successfully constructed using a bulky silyl-amide ligand. Single-crystal structure analysis reveals that complex 1 exhibits a binuclear motif, with a Cr₂Cl₂ rhombus core, where two equivalent tetra-coordinate Cr^II centers in the centrosymmetric unit display quasi-square planar geometry. The crystal structure has been well simulated and explored by density functional theory calculations. The axial zero-field splitting parameter (D < 0) with a small rhombic (E) value is unambiguously determined by systematic investigations of magnetic measurements, high-frequency electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and ab initio calculations. Remarkably, ac magnetic susceptibility data unveil that 1 features slow dynamic magnetic relaxation typical of single-molecule magnet behavior with U_eff = 22 K in the absence of a dc field. This increases up to 35 K under a corresponding static field. Moreover, magnetic studies and theoretical calculations point out that a non-negligible ferromagnetic coupling (FMC) exists in the dimeric Cr-Cr units of 1. The coexistence of magnetic anisotropy and FMC contributes to the first case of Cr^II-based single-molecule magnets (SMMs) under zero dc field.

Intramolecular Ferromagnetism in Di-Nuclear 3 d-Transition-Metal Single-Molecule Magnets by Pseudo-Serial Arrangement

Di-nuclear citrate complexes, [CH₆ N₃ ]₂ [M₂ (citH)₂ (H₂ O)₄ ] ⋅ 2H₂ O (citH₄ =citric acid; M=Fe^II (Fe-2), Co^II (Co-2), and Ni^II (Ni-2)), are synthesized. The ligand, citH^3- , is deprotonated only at the three carboxy groups, which is different from the previously reported tetra-nuclear structures with cit^4- ligands. Magnetic measurements reveal that these complexes have intramolecular ferromagnetism with J=∼0 cm^-1 (Ni-2), 0.02 cm^-1 (Co-2), and 0.04 cm^-1 (Fe-2). Co-2 and Fe-2 show slow magnetic relaxation, and are field-induced SMMs with activation energy of spin-reversal U_eff =27 cm^-1 (Co-2) and 4.2 cm^-1 (Fe-2). Density functional theory calculations indicate that the uniaxial anisotropy along the z-axis of each metal ion center forms the pseudo-serial arrangement, leading to intramolecular ferromagnetism via the magnetic dipole interaction. This work demonstrates the creation of ferromagnetic SMMs by the magnetic dipole engineering of 3d di-nuclear metal ion centers.

Multi-Technique Experimental Benchmarking of the Local Magnetic Anisotropy of a Cobalt(II) Single-Ion Magnet

A comprehensive understanding of the ligand field and its influence on the degeneracy and population of d-orbitals in a specific coordination environment are crucial for the rational design and enhancement of magnetic anisotropy of single-ion magnets (SIMs). Herein, we report the synthesis and comprehensive magnetic characterization of a highly anisotropic Co^II SIM, [L₂Co](TBA)₂ (L is an N,N'-chelating oxanilido ligand), that is stable under ambient conditions. Dynamic magnetization measurements show that this SIM exhibits a large energy barrier to spin reversal U _eff > 300 K and magnetic blocking up to 3.5 K, and the property is retained in a frozen solution. Low-temperature single-crystal synchrotron X-ray diffraction used to determine the experimental electron density gave access to Co d-orbital populations and a derived U _eff, 261 cm^-1, when the coupling between the d _{x ² - y ²} and d_xy orbitals is taken into account, in very good agreement with ab initio calculations and superconducting quantum interference device results. Powder and single-crystal polarized neutron diffraction (PNPD, PND) have been used to quantify the magnetic anisotropy via the atomic susceptibility tensor, revealing that the easy axis of magnetization is pointing along the N-Co-N' bisectors of the N,N'-chelating ligands (3.4° offset), close to the molecular axis, in good agreement with complete active space self-consistent field/N-electron valence perturbation theory to second order ab initio calculations. This study provides benchmarking for two methods, PNPD and single-crystal PND, on the same 3d SIM, and key benchmarking for current theoretical methods to determine local magnetic anisotropy parameters.

On the Single-Molecule Magnetic Behavior of Linear Iron(I) Arylsilylamides

The rational design of 3d-metal-based single-molecule magnets (SMM) requires a fundamental understanding of their intrinsic electronic and structural properties and how they translate into experimentally observable features. Here, we determined the magnetic properties of the linear iron(I) silylamides K{crypt}[FeL₂] and [KFeL₂] (L = -N(Dipp)SiMe₃; crypt = 4,7,13,16,21,24-Hexaoxa-1,10-diazabicyclo[8.8.8]hexacosan). For the former, slow-relaxation of the magnetization with a spin reversal barrier of U_eff = 152 cm^-1 as well as a closed-waist magnetic hysteresis and magnetic blocking below 2.5 K are observed. For the more linear [KFeL₂], in which the potassium cation is encapsulated by the aryl substituents of the amide ligands, the relaxation barrier and the blocking temperature increase to U_eff = 184 cm^-1 and T_B = 4.5 K, respectively. The increase is rationalized by a more pronounced axial anisotropy in [KFeL₂] determined by dc-SQUID magnetometry. The effective relaxation barrier of [KFeL₂] is in agreement with the energy spacing between the ground and first-excited magnetic states, as obtained by field-dependent IR-spectroscopy (178 cm^-1), magnetic measurements (208 cm^-1), as well as theoretical analysis (212 cm^-1). In comparison with the literature, the results show that magnetic coercivity in linear iron(I) silylamides is driven by the degree of linearity in conjunction with steric encumbrance, whereas the ligand symmetry is a marginal factor.

Magnetic anisotropy and structural flexibility in the field-induced single ion magnets [Co{(OPPh2)(EPPh2)N}2], E = S, Se, explored by experimental and computational methods

During the last few years, a large number of mononuclear Co(II) complexes of various coordination geometries have been explored as potential single ion magnets (SIMs). In the work presented herein, the Co(II) S = 3/2 tetrahedral [Co{(OPPh2)(EPPh2)N}2], E = S, Se, complexes (abbreviated as CoO2E2), bearing chalcogenated mixed donor-atom imidodiphosphinato ligands, were studied by both experimental and computational techniques. Specifically, direct current (DC) magnetometry provided estimations of their zero-field splitting (zfs) axial (D) and rhombic (E) parameter values, which were more accurately determined by a combination of far-infrared magnetic spectroscopy and high-frequency and -field EPR spectroscopy studies. The latter combination of techniques was also implemented for the S = 3/2 tetrahedral [Co{(EPiPr2)2N}2], E = S, Se, complexes, confirming the previously determined magnitude of their zfs parameters. For both pairs of complexes (E = S, Se), it is concluded that the identity of the E donor atom does not significantly affect their zfs parameters. High-resolution multifrequency EPR studies of CoO2E2 provided evidence of multiple conformations, which are more clearly observed for CoO2Se2, in agreement with the structural disorder previously established for this complex by X-ray crystallography. The CoO2E2 complexes were shown to be field-induced SIMs, i.e., they exhibit slow relaxation of magnetization in the presence of an external DC magnetic field. Advanced quantum-chemical calculations on CoO2E2 provided additional insight into their electronic and structural properties.

Theoretical study of phenylbismuth anion as a blueprint for main-group single-molecule magnets

The hypothetical [BiPh]^- anion obtained by a one-electron reduction from the respective bismuthinidene is proposed as a basis for constructing single-molecule magnets (SMMs) consisting purely of main-group elements. Based on high-level quantum-chemical calculations, the [BiPh]^- anion is predicted to be a SMM with an effective barrier of 6418 cm^-1 for the relaxation of magnetization. This barrier is much larger than any effective barrier observed so far in any experimentally characterized SMM. The reduction potential for the [BiPh]^-/BiPh couple is calculated as -1.5 V, which implies that the [BiPh]^- moiety is accessible from stable bismuthinidenes containing a BiPh moiety and sufficient steric protection for the reactive Bi atom. Thus, [BiPh]^- provides a blueprint for the realization of purely main-group SMMs which can surpass in their properties the best known dysprosium-based SMMs.

Pushing up the easy-axis magnetic anisotropy and relaxation times in trigonal prismatic CoII mononuclear SMMs by molecular structure design

The replacement of pyridine by 1-methyl-imidazol in the arms of a N₆-tripodal ligand allows preparing two new Co^II complexes with quasi-ideal triangular prismatic geometry, which behave as SIMs (Single Ion Magnets) at zero dc field with enhanced axial magnetic anisotropy, magnetic relaxation times and magnetic hysteresis.

Pentagonal-bipyramidal 4d and 5d complexes with unquenched orbital angular momentum as a unique platform for advanced single-molecule magnets: current state and perspectives

This article overviews the current state and prospects of the concept of advanced single-molecule magnets (SMMs) based on low-spin (S = 1/2) pentagonal-bipyramidal (PBP) 4d³ and 5d³ complexes with unquenched orbital angular momentum. This approach is based on the unique property of PBP 4d³ and 5d³ complexes to cause highly anisotropic spin coupling of perfect uniaxial symmetry, -J_zSziSzj - J_xy(SxiSxj + SyiSyj), regardless of the local geometric symmetry. The M(4d/5d)-M(3d) exchange-coupled pairs in the apical positions of the PBP complexes produce Ising-type exchange interactions (|J_z| > |J_xy|), which serve as a powerful source of uniaxial magnetic anisotropy of a SMM cluster. In polynuclear heterometallic 4d/5d-3d complexes embodying PBP 4d/5d units and high-spin 3d ions, anisotropic Ising-type exchange interactions produce a double-well potential with high energy barriers U_eff, which is controlled by the anisotropic exchange parameters J_z, J_xy. Theoretical analysis shows that the barrier is proportional to the difference |J_z - J_xy| and to the number n of the apical 4d/5d-3d pairs in a SMM cluster, U_eff ∝ |J_z - J_xy|n, which provides an opportunity to scale up the barrier U_eff and blocking temperature T_B up to the record values. A novel family of 4d/5d complexes with forced PBP coordination provided by structurally rigid planar pentadentate Schiff-base ligands in the equatorial plane is discussed as a better alternative to the cyanometallates. The possibility of a significant increase in the anisotropic exchange parameters J_z, J_xy in PBP complexes with monoatomic apical μ-bridging ligands is examined. The basic principles of molecular engineering the highest barrier through anisotropic exchange interactions of PBP 4d/5d complexes are formulated. The theoretical and experimental results taken together indicate that the concept of high-performance SMMs based on 4d/5d PBP complexes with unquenched orbital angular momentum is an attractive alternative to the currently dominant lanthanide-based SMM strategy.

(Et4N)[WIII(DAPBH)(CN)2], the first pentagonal-bipyramidal W(III) complex with unquenched orbital angular momentum: a novel Ising-type magnetic building block for single-molecule magnets

The first pentagonal-bipyramidal tungsten(III) complex (Et₄N)[W^III(DAPBH)(CN)₂] with a N₃O₂-type Schiff-base ligand and two apical cyanide groups was synthesized and characterized structurally and magnetically. The complex has a low-spin (S = 1/2) ground state and features unquenched orbital angular momentum M_L = ±1 causing very strong Ising-type magnetic anisotropy.

Synthesis, crystal polymorphism and spin crossover behavior of adamantylboron-capped cobalt(II) hexachloroclathrochelate and its transformation into the CoIIICoIICoIII-bis-macrobicyclic derivative

Fast crystallization of the monoclathrochelate cobalt(II) intracomplex [Co(Cl₂Gm)₃(BAd)₂] (where Cl₂Gm^2- is a dichloroglyoxime dianion and BAd is an adamantylboron capping group, 1), initially obtained by the direct template condensation of the corresponding chelating α-dioximate and cross-linking ligand synthons on the Co²⁺ ion as a matrix, from benzene or dichloromethane afforded its structural triclinic and hexagonal polymorphs. Its prolonged recrystallization from dichloromethane under air atmosphere and sunlight irradiation unexpectedly gave the crystals of the Co^IIICo^IICo^III-trinuclear dodecachloro-bis-clathrochelate intracomplex [[Co^III(Cl₂Gm)₃(BAd)]₂Co^II] (2), the molecule of which consists of two macrobicyclic frameworks with encapsulated low-spin (LS) Co³⁺ ions, which are cross-linked by a μ₃-bridging Co²⁺ ion as a bifunctional Lewis-acidic center. The most plausible pathway of such a 1 → 2 transformation is based on the photoinitiated radical oxidation of dichloromethane with air oxygen giving the reactive species. Cobalt(II) monoclathrochelate 1 was found to undergo a temperature-induced spin crossover (SCO) both in its solutions and in the solid state. In spite of the conformational rigidity of the corresponding quasiaromatic diboron-capped tris-α-dioximate framework, the main parameters of this SCO transition (i.e., its completeness and gradual character) are strongly affected by the nature of the used solvent (in the case of its solutions) and by the structural polymorphism of its crystals (in the solid state). In the latter case, the LS state (S = 1/2) of this complex is more thermally stable and, therefore, the cobalt(II)-centered 1/2 → 3/2 SCO is more gradual than that in solutions.

Unraveling the Contributions to Spin-Lattice Relaxation in Kramers Single-Molecule Magnets

The study of how spin interacts with lattice vibrations and relaxes to equilibrium provides unique insights into its chemical environment and the relation between electronic structure and molecular composition. Despite its importance for several disciplines, ranging from magnetic resonance to quantum technologies, a convincing interpretation of spin dynamics in crystals of magnetic molecules is still lacking due to the challenging experimental determination of the correct spin relaxation mechanism. We apply ab initio spin dynamics to a series of 12 coordination complexes of Co²⁺ and Dy³⁺ ions selected among ∼240 compounds that largely cover the literature on single-molecule magnets and well represent different regimes of spin relaxation. Simulations reveal that the Orbach spin relaxation rate of known compounds mostly depends on the ions' zero-field splitting and little on the details of molecular vibrations. Raman relaxation is instead found to be also significantly affected by the features of low-energy phonons. These results provide a complete understanding of the factors limiting spin lifetime in single-molecule magnets and revisit years of experimental investigations by making it possible to transparently distinguish Orbach and Raman relaxation mechanisms.

Supramolecular encapsulation of hexaaquacobalt(II) cations in a hydrogen-bonded framework for slow magnetic relaxation and high proton conduction

The supramolecular assembly of hexaaquacobalt(II) nitrate and a tetradentate carboxylate ligand resulted in the isolation of a cobalt hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF). Variable-temperature X-ray diffraction experiments reveal high thermal stability of the framework sustained by charge-assisted, multiple hydrogen bonding interactions with the co-former. Interestingly, the material shows field-induced slow relaxation of magnetization originating from the magnetically anisotropic Co²⁺ ions within the supramolecular framework, revealing a rare single-ion magnet (SIM) HOF. Additionally, the HOF also exhibits high proton conductivity above 100 °C due to the extensive H-bond networks and high content of water and carboxylate within the material. More importantly, these results not only observe the magnetic and electrical properties of an old molecule but also demonstrate a significant turn-on effect of multifunctionalities from non-functional synthons achieved in a supramolecular approach.

Mixed-Sandwich Titanium(III) Qubits on Au(111): Electron Delocalization Ruled by Molecular Packing

Organometallic sandwich complexes are versatile molecular systems that have been recently employed for single-molecule manipulation and spin sensing experiments. Among related organometallic compounds, the mixed-sandwich S = 1/2 complex (η⁸-cyclooctatetraene)(η⁵-cyclopentadienyl)titanium, here [CpTi(cot)], has attracted interest as a spin qubit because of the long coherence time. Here the structural and chemical properties of [CpTi(cot)] on Au(111) are investigated at the monolayer level by experimental and computational methods. Scanning tunneling microscopy suggests that adsorption occurs in two molecular orientations, lying and standing, with a 3:1 ratio. XPS data evidence that a fraction of the molecules undergo partial electron transfer to gold, while our computational analysis suggests that only the standing molecules experience charge delocalization toward the surface. Such a phenomenon depends on intermolecular interactions that stabilize the molecular packing in the monolayer. This orientation-dependent molecule-surface hybridization opens exciting perspectives for selective control of the molecule-substrate spin delocalization in hybrid interfaces.

Computational design of magnetic molecules and their environment using quantum chemistry, machine learning and multiscale simulations

Having served as a playground for fundamental studies on the physics of d and f electrons for almost a century, magnetic molecules are now becoming increasingly important for technological applications, such as magnetic resonance, data storage, spintronics and quantum information. All of these applications require the preservation and control of spins in time, an ability hampered by the interaction with the environment, namely with other spins, conduction electrons, molecular vibrations and electromagnetic fields. Thus, the design of a novel magnetic molecule with tailored properties is a formidable task, which does not only concern its electronic structures but also calls for a deep understanding of the interaction among all the degrees of freedom at play. This Review describes how state-of-the-art ab initio computational methods, combined with data-driven approaches to materials modelling, can be integrated into a fully multiscale strategy capable of defining design rules for magnetic molecules.

Single-Molecule Magnetism in Linear Fe(I) Complexes with Aufbau and Non-Aufbau Ground States

With the ongoing efforts on synthesizing mononuclear single-ion magnets (SIMs) with promising applications in high-density data storage and spintronics devices, the linear or quasi-linear Fe(I) complexes emerge as the enticing candidates possessing large unquenched angular momentum. Herein, we have studied five experimentally synthesized linear Fe(I) complexes to uncover the origin of single-molecule magnetic behavior of these complexes. To begin with, we benchmarked the methodology on the experimentally and theoretically well-studied complex [Fe(C(SiMe₃)₃)₂]^-1 (1) (SiMe₃ = trimethylsilyl), which is characterized with a large spin-reversal barrier of 226 cm^-1. Subsequently, the spin-phonon coupling coefficients are calculated for the low-frequency vibrational modes to understand the relaxation mechanism of the complex. Furthermore, the two Fe(I) complexes, that is, [Fe(cyIDep)₂]⁺¹ (2) (cyIDep = 1,3-bis(2',6'-diethylphenyl)-4,5-(CH₂)₄-imidazole-2-ylidene) and [Fe(sIDep)₂]⁺¹ (3) (sIDep = 1,3-bis(2',6'-diethylphenyl)-imidazolin-2-ylidene), are studied that are experimentally reported with no SIM behavior under ac or dc magnetic fields; however, they exhibit large opposite axial zero field splitting (-62.4 and +34.0 cm^-1, respectively) from ab initio calculations. We have unwrapped the origin of this contrasting observation between experiment and theory by probing their magnetic relaxation pathways and the pattern of d orbital splitting. Additionally, the two experimentally synthesized Fe(I) complexes, that is, [(η⁶-C₆H₆)FeAr*-3,5-Pr₂ⁱ] (4) (Ar*-3,5-Pr₂ⁱ = C₆H-2,6-(C₆H₂-2,4,6-Pr₃ⁱ)₂-3,5-Pr₂ⁱ) and [(CAAC)₂Fe]⁺¹ (5) (CAAC = cyclic (alkyl) (amino)carbene), are investigated for SIM behavior, since there is no report on their magnetic anisotropy. To this end, complex 4 presents itself as the possible candidate for SIM.

Self-assembly of fish-bone and grid-like CoII-based single-molecule magnets using dihydrazone ligands with NNN and NNO pockets

Three Co^II complexes, [Co₂(H₂L¹)₂](ClO₄)₄·4CH₃OH (1), [Co₂(H₄L²)₂](ClO₄)₄ (2) and [Co₄(H₄L²)₄](ClO₄)₈ (3), were constructed by the self-assembly of the symmetrical dihydrazone ligands H2L1 and H4L2 with Co^II ions under different synthetic conditions. The fish-bone-like complex 1 was obtained using the ligand H2L1 in methanol via the solvothermal method, while the self-assembly of H4L2 with Co^II ions is solvent-dependent, producing the fish-bone-like complex 2 and [2 × 2] grid-like complex 3. Magnetic susceptibility measurements and theoretical calculations reveal that the large negative D values for the three complexes stem from their easy-axis magnetic anisotropy. Ac magnetic susceptibility measurements disclosed field-induced slow magnetic relaxation behaviors and the presence of Raman and/or direct processes of the three complexes at various applied dc fields.

Lanthanide SMMs Based on Belt Macrocycles: Recent Advances and General Trends

Enhancement of axial magnetic anisotropy is the central objective to push forward the performance of Single-Molecule Magnet (SMM) complexes. In the case of mononuclear lanthanide complexes, the chemical environment around the paramagnetic ion must be tuned to place strongly interacting ligands along either the axial positions or the equatorial plane, depending on the oblate or prolate preference of the selected lanthanide. One classical strategy to achieve a precise chemical environment for a metal centre is using highly structured, chelating ligands. A natural approach for axial-equatorial control is the employment of macrocycles acting in a belt conformation, providing the equatorial coordination environment, and leaving room for axial ligands. In this review, we present a survey of SMMs based on the macrocycle belt motif. Literature systems are divided in three families (crown ether, Schiff-base and metallacrown) and their general properties in terms of structural stability and SMM performance are briefly discussed.

On-Surface Design of a 2D Cobalt-Organic Network Preserving Large Orbital Magnetic Moment

The design of antiferromagnetic nanomaterials preserving large orbital magnetic moments is important to protect their functionalities against magnetic perturbations. Here, we exploit an archetype H₆HOTP species for conductive metal-organic frameworks to design a Co-HOTP one-atom-thick metal-organic architecture on a Au(111) surface. Our multidisciplinary scanning probe microscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray linear dichroism, and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism study, combined with density functional theory simulations, reveals the formation of a unique network design based on threefold Co⁺² coordination with deprotonated ligands, which displays a large orbital magnetic moment with an orbital to effective spin moment ratio of 0.8, an in-plane easy axis of magnetization, and large magnetic anisotropy. Our simulations suggest an antiferromagnetic ground state, which is compatible with the experimental findings. Such a Co-HOTP metal-organic network exemplifies how on-surface chemistry can enable the design of field-robust antiferromagnetic materials.