A new compartmental ligand with sterically hindered end groups has been developed.
This binucleating ligand serves as a scaffold for two closely located paramagnetic M(II) (M = Fe, Co, Ni) ions.
Cation–anion pairs are a feature of their metal halide complexes.
Fluxional behaviour and distinct binding properties are displayed by their neutral zinc(II) chloride derivatives.
Their M2 (M = Fe, Co, Ni) halide complexes show activity for ethylene oligomerisation.