Double-resonance O NMR experiments reveal unique configurational information for surface organometallic complexes

Obtaining three-dimensional (3D) configurational information of surface organometallic complexes is a persistent challenge due to the low spatial sensitivity of most spectroscopic methods. We show that employing 17 O-enriched supports enables highly informative multidimensional NMR experiments, including radial and vertical distance measurements, that can be used to elucidate site geometry. 17 O-Labeling supports enables the determination of the 3D configuration of surface organometallic complexes. The procedure also allows for probing of the metal's chemical environment through 2D experiments involving the metal-bound oxygen.