Synthesis, crystal structure and optical properties of a novel Co(II) complex containing imidazole ligand

A novel imidazole derivative with pi-conjugated system, 1-[trans-4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)phenyl] imidazole(L) and its complex, CoL4(SCN)(2), were prepared. The structure of the complex was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The crystal is of orthorhombic system, space group P1 with a = 0.931 7(3) nm, b = 1.275 3(4) nm, c = 1.669 1(5) nm, alpha = 89.521 (5)degrees, beta = 84.591 (5)degrees, gamma = 80.052(5)degrees, V=1.9446(11) nm(3), Z = 1, mu = 0.329 mm(-1), D-c = 1.234 Mg/m(3) F(000) =765, R-1 = 0.060 1, wR =0.138 1, GOF = 1.030. In the molecular structure of Co(SCN)(2)L-4, Co-II atom is six coordinated by four N atoms of the ligands (L) and two N atoms of thiocyanate to form an octahedral geometry. The untypical hydrogen bonds and pi-pi stacking interaction lead to three-dimensional supramolecular formation. The optical properties were experimentally studied.