Synthesis and characterization of cerium, thorium, and uranyl complexes with ( E )-4-(4-methoxyphenoxy)-4-oxobut-2-enoic acid

(E)-4-(4-Methoxyphenoxy)-4-oxobut-2-enoic acid and its Ce(IV), Th(IV), and UO2(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized by MS, elemental analysis, IR, UV, TG-DTA, and NMR. The complexes have composition [CeL2(OH)2 2H2O] H2O, [ThL2(OH)2 2H2O] H2O, and [UO2L2 2H2O] H2O. Molar conductance data confirm that the three complexes are nonelectrolytes. The IR and NMR results show that the carboxylates coordinate to the metal ions bidentate, and the ester carboxylic groups do not take part in coordination. Luminescence spectra of the ligand and complexes in DMSO at room temperature were also studied showing strong luminescence of the metal ions.