Metallodendrimers: homo- and heterogeneous tier construction by bis(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridinyl)Ru(II) complex connectivity

A convenient combinatorial-style route for the incorporation of multiple, differing functional groups, in a controllable ratio, onto a dendritic poly(propylene imine) scaffolding is described. Attachment of the functionality is accomplished by the connective formation of bis(2,2′:6′,2-terpyridine)Ru(II) complexes via reaction of a terpyridine-modified dendritic surface with 1→3 branched monomers each possessing a focal terpyridine moiety. This synthetic approach produces a heterogeneous surface coating that is compared and contrasted to that of analogous homogeneous surfaced constructs. UV–vis absorption and TGA data for the metallodendrimers are also reported.