title: Solvent-free synthesis of metal complexes.
abstract: Avoiding the use of solvents in synthesis can reduce environmental contamination and even be more convenient than using solvent-based synthesis. In this tutorial review we focus on recent research into the use of mechanochemistry (grinding) to synthesise metal complexes in the absence of solvent. We include synthesis of mononuclear complexes, coordination clusters, spacious coordination cages, and 1-, 2- and 3-dimensional coordination polymers (metal organic frameworks) which can even exhibit microporosity. Remarkably, in many cases, mechanochemical synthesis is actually faster and more convenient than the original solvent-based methods. Examples of solvent-free methods other than grinding are also briefly discussed, and the positive outlook for this growing topic is emphasised.
authors.affiliation: Centre for the Theory and Application of Catalysis (CenTACat), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Queen's University Belfast, David Keir Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UKBT9 5AG.
authors.forename: Ana Lazuen
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Garay
authors.forename: Anne
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Pichon
authors.forename: Stuart L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: James
mesh_terms: D018360:Crystallography, X-Ray; D019563:Mechanics; D008958:Models, Molecular; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D009942:Organometallic Compounds / Q000138:chemical synthesis*; D012997:Solvents
chemical_list: D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D012997:Solvents