Synthesis, spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization of Co(II)-terpyridine based metallopolymer

Abstract A new oligothienyl-based metallopolymer including Co(terpyridine) 2 complex units is synthesised by electrochemical oxidation of the relevant monomer. The chemical structure of the polymer chains and the electronic interaction between the organic portions and the metal centres are investigated by spectroscopic (X-rays photoelectron spectroscopy included), electrochemical, and spectroelectrochemical techniques. Thanks to the low potential of the Co(III)/Co(II) redox couple in the Co(terpyridine) 2 complex and to the presence of oligothienyl spacer, strong electron interaction between the organic backbone and the metal centres have been demonstrated.