[M(bpy)3] (M = Fe, Ru, Os): New Crystalline Materials from the reductive electrocrystallization of [M(bpy)3](PF6)2

Reductive electrocrystallization at a constant current density (11.0–11.5 μA/cm2) of millimolar solutions of [M(bpy)3](PF6)2, where M = Fe, Ru, or Os, and bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine in acetonitrile containing 0.1M Bu4NPF6 results in the formation of dark crystals on the Pt cathode. The crystals grow as long, thin, and shiny needles having a hexagonal cross section of 0.1–0.5 mm in diameter. Combustion microanalyses results are consistent with the composition for [Fe(bpy)3], [Ru(bpy)3], and [Os(bpy)3]. In addition, the chromophores are conserved, as confirmed by recording both the electronic and the 1H‐NMR spectra after reoxidation of the electrocrystals in humid air. The spectra are identical to those for authentic samples of [Fe(bpy)3]2+, [Ru(bpy)3]2+, and [Os(bpy)3]2+. A ratio of 2.0 ± 0.1 e−/molecule is observed upon completion of the controlled potential electrolysis of a solution of [M(bpy)3]2+, which results in the precipitation of a dark solid and the almost complete fading of the color of the original solution. Unexpectedly, the crystals do not exhibit an ESR signal. These data indicate the formation of novel materials, crystalline [Fe(bpy)3], [Ru(bpy)3], and [Os(bpy)3].