Synthesis and luminescence properties of lanthanide complexes with a new tripodal ligands featuring salicylamide arms.

A series of luminescent lanthanide complexes with a new tripodal ligand featuring salicylamide arms, 2,2',2''-nitrilotris(2-furfurylaminoformylphenoxy)triethylamine (L), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR and molar conductivity measurements. Photophysical properties of the complexes were studied by means of UV-vis absorption and steady-state luminescence spectroscopy. Excited-state luminescence lifetimes and quantum yield of the complexes were determined. Luminescence studies demonstrated that the tripodal ligand featuring salicylamide arms exhibits a good antennae effect with respect to the Tb(III) and Dy(III) ion due to efficient intersystem crossing and ligand to metal energy transfer. From a more general perspective, this work offers interesting perspectives for the development of efficient luminescent stains and enlarges the arsenal for developing novel luminescent lanthanide complexes of salicylamide derivatives.