Template synthesis and characterization of hexaaza nickel(II) complex nanoparticles entrapped within the zeolite-Y

Some complexes containing “[Ni([18]py2N4)]2+, [Ni([20]py2N4)]2+, [Ni(Bzo2[18]py2N4)]2+ and [Ni(Bzo2[20]py2N4)]2+” were successfully prepared by the template synthesis of 2,6-diacetylpyridine with [bis(diamine)nickel(II)]; [Ni(N–N)2]2+; within the zeolite-Y. These complexes were entrapped in the supercage of Y-zeolite by a two-step process in the liquid phase: (i) inclusion of a Ni(II) precursor complex, [Ni(diamine)2]2+@NaY, and (ii) template synthesis of the nickel(II) precursor complex with 2,6-diacetylpyridine. The new complex nanoparticles entrapped within the zeolite-Y “[Ni([18]py2N4)]2+@NaY, [Ni([20]py2N4)]2+@NaY, [Ni(Bzo2[18]py2N4)]2+@NaY, [Ni(Bzo2[20]py2N4)]2+@NaY” were characterized by several techniques: chemical analysis and spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, UV–Vis, XRD, BET, DRS). Analysis of the data indicates that the Ni(II) complexes are encapsulated within the zeolite-Y and exhibit different property from those of the free complexes, which can arise from distortions caused by steric effects due to the presence of sodium cations, or from interactions with the zeolite matrix.