Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Two‐Step‐Coordination Schiff Base Clusters

A new family of paramagnetic coordination compounds based on a diimine‐pyridine pincer ligand has been prepared, using a two‐step synthetic approach. The sequential introduction of identical or different transition metals (Co, Mn, Ni, Zn) afforded mono‐, di‐, tri‐ and tetranuclear clusters, whose crystal structure has been determined. Magnetic studies reveal that the metals within the trinuclear manganese cluster engage in a small ferromagnetic exchange interaction (J=0.15 K). These studies enable the design of new clusters with specific magnetic properties.