Carboxy derivatised Ir(III) complexes: synthesis, electrochemistry, photophysical properties and photocatalytic hydrogen generation

In this contribution the synthesis and characterisation of a series of novel mixed ligand iridium(iii) complexes, functionalised with a carboxy ester or phosphonate groups are reported. These groupings are introduced on the 4-position of either the phenyl pyridine or the 2,2'-bipyridyl ligands. A low temperature high yield synthesis for the precursor [Ir(ppy-COOEt)2(μ-Cl)]2 was developed. The photophysical and electrochemical properties of these compounds are also described, together with their behaviour as photosensitisers for the generation of hydrogen from water.