Trinuclear {Co(2+)-M(3+)-Co(2+)} complexes catalyze reduction of nitro compounds.

This work presents synthesis and characterization of trinuclear {Co(2+)-Co(3+)-Co(2+)} and {Co(2+)-Fe(3+)-Co(2+)} complexes with accessible peripheral Co(ii) ions. Both trinuclear complexes function as efficient reusable heterogeneous catalysts for the selective reduction of assorted nitro compounds to the corresponding amines. The mechanistic investigations suggest the involvement of a Co(ii)-Co(i) cycle in the catalysis.