Hierarchical self-assembly of supramolecular spintronic modules into 1D-and 2D-architectures with emergence of magnetic properties

Hierarchical self-assembly of complex supramolecular architectures allows for the emergence of novel properties at each level of complexity. The reaction of the ligand components A and B with Fe-II cations generates the [2 x 2] grid-type functional building modules 1 and 2, presenting spin-transition properties and preorganizing an array of coordination sites that sets the stage for a second assembly step. Indeed, binding of La-III ions to 1 and of Ag-I ions to 2 leads to a 1D columnar superstructure 3 and to a wall-like 2D layer 4, respectively, with concomitant modulation of the magnetic properties of 1 and 2. Thus, to each of the two levels of structural complexity generated by the two sequential self-assembly steps corresponds the emergence of novel functional features.