Synthesis and luminescence properties of lanthanide complexes with a new tripodal ligands featuring salicylamide arms.

A series of luminescent lanthanide complexes with a new tripodal ligand featuring salicylamide arms, 2,2',2''-nitrilotris(2-furfurylaminoformylphenoxy)triethylamine (L), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR and molar conductivity measurements. Photophysical properties of the complexes were studied by means of UV-vis absorption and steady-state luminescence spectroscopy. Excited-state luminescence lifetimes and quantum yield of the complexes were determined. Luminescence studies demonstrated that the tripodal ligand featuring salicylamide arms exhibits a good antennae effect with respect to the Tb(III) and Dy(III) ion due to efficient intersystem crossing and ligand to metal energy transfer. From a more general perspective, this work offers interesting perspectives for the development of efficient luminescent stains and enlarges the arsenal for developing novel luminescent lanthanide complexes of salicylamide derivatives. Copyright (c) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.