Single-molecule magnets, molecules with a bistable spin ground state and a thermal barrier to reversal of their magnetization, Ueff, are of interest for applications in high density data storage and molecular spintronics. Lanthanide-based single-molecule magnets have been especially effective in maximizing Ueff values and in turn magnetic blocking temperatures due to their substantial single-ion magnetic anisotropies and large magnetic moments. In particular, single-ion Dy3+ molecules have been rationally designed to produce incredibly large Ueff values through use of strongly donating axial ligand sets that maximize magnetic anisotropy.1,2 Specific use of alkoxide ligands to generate strong axial anisotropy stemming from the incredibly short Ln-OR bond has also provoked large Ueff values for Dy3+ centers. Unfortunately, these high-anisotropy Dy3+ ions are concealed within polynuclear clusters generated by the ability of alkoxides to bridge multiple lanthanide ions, making subtle variation of coordination environment to effect magnetic relaxation difficult.3 Here, synthesis and characterization of a unique series of single-ion Dy3+ complexes with terminal alkoxide ligands is shown. Large Ueff values and magnetic blocking are observed. Both axial and equatorial ligands are systematically altered to elucidate the effects of axial and equatorial ligand donor strength, coordination number, and symmetry on single-ion Dy3+ magnetic relaxation.

Series of Dy3+ single-molecule magnets with terminal alkoxide ligands that promote large barriers to magnetic relaxation

253rd National Meeting (2017)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.