Synthesis and magnetic properties of one-dimensional metal oxalate networks as molecular-based magnets

The homo- and heteropolymetallic assemblies of MM′(OX)2(H2O)4, where MM′ represents MnMn, CoMn, NiMn, CuMn, CoCo, NiCo, CuCo, NiNi, CuNi, and CuCu; and the respective complexes, numbered 1–10, have been prepared by reacting metal(II) salts-i.e. of Mn, Co, Ni, and Cu- and potassium oxalate monohydrate in hot water (90–100°C). The magnetic susceptibility data of the complexes 8 and 9 in the 300 K-20 K temperature range obeys the Curie-Weiss law and exhibits Weiss constants -50 K and -100 K, respectively. On lowering the temperature, the effective magnetic moment decreases gradually and is indicative of antiferromagnetic phase transition. The complexes have also been characterized by ES mass spectrometry, infrared (IR), electronic, and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra.