Spin transitions in bis(amidinato)-N-heterocyclic carbene iron(II) and iron(III) complexes

In contrast to high spin pyridyl diimine iron(II) dichloride complexes, analogous bis(amidinato)-N-heterocyclic carbene iron(II) and iron(III) complexes demonstrate complex magnetic behaviour. In the solid state, they are best described as intermediate spin complexes at low temperatures that demonstrate gradual spin transitions beginning near or below room temperature. Treating the bis(amidinato)-N-heterocyclic carbene iron(II) complex with an aryl azide revealed enhanced reactivity compared to analogous complexes supported by pyridyl diimine ligands.