Insight of the Metal-Ligand Interaction in f-Element Complexes by Paramagnetic NMR Spectroscopy.

The magnetic properties of Ln and An complexes formed with dipicolinate ligands have been studied by NMR spectroscopy. To know precisely the geometries of these complexes, a crystallographic study by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) in solution was performed. Several methods to separate the paramagnetic shifts observed in the NMR spectra were applied to these complexes.

Structural Characterization of Am(III)- and Pu(III)-DOTA Complexes.

The complexation of 1,4,7,10-tetrazacyclodecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) ligand with two trivalent actinides (Am and Pu) was investigated by UV-visible spectrophotometry, NMR spectroscopy, and extended X-ray absorption fine structure in conjunction with computational methods. The complexation process of these two cations is similar to what has been previously observed with lanthanides(III) of similar ionic radius. The complexation takes place in different steps and ends with the formation of a (1:1) complex [(An(III)DOTA)(HO)], where the cation is bonded to the nitrogen atoms of the ring, the four carboxylate arms, and a water molecule to complete the coordination sphere.