Synthesis of an Alternated Heterobimetallic Supramolecular Polymer Based on Ru(II) and Fe(II)

A heterobimetallic supramolecular polymer (polyRuFe) with alternately complexed Ru(II) and Fe(II) is prepared following a stepwise synthetic route through harnessing first the strongly binding metal ion Ru(II) and then the weakly binding metal ion Fe(II). A high yield of product is achieved in each step. The heterometal ions are incorporated into the polymer chain in identical coordination environments formed by two 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine moieties. Characterization is accomplished by NMR spectroscopy, MALDI–TOF mass spectrometry, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. PolyRuFe shows a wide optical window (λ = 311–577 nm) and a broad distinct reversible redox nature of two types, originated from the coupling of the two heterometallic segments into the polymer chain. Such characteristics of polyRuFe suggest its potential for various electrochemical and electro-optical applications.