This work presents synthesis and characterization of trinuclear {Co(2+)-Co(3+)-Co(2+)} and {Co(2+)-Fe(3+)-Co(2+)} complexes with accessible peripheral Co(ii) ions. Both trinuclear complexes function as efficient reusable heterogeneous catalysts for the selective reduction of assorted nitro compounds to the corresponding amines. The mechanistic investigations suggest the involvement of a Co(ii)-Co(i) cycle in the catalysis.

We report the synthesis and characterization of two-dimensional homodimetallic {Co 3+ -Co 2+ } and heterodimetallic {Fe 3+ -Co 2+ } coordination networks with Co 3+ -and Fe 3+based metalloligands. The crystal structures reveal 2D networks in which the metalloligands are connected through secondary Co 2+ ions. The kinetic lability of the secondary [a]4966 Co 2+ ions, their Lewis acidity, and the presence of dissociable coordinated water molecules have been utilized in Knoevenagel condensation and cyanation reactions of assorted aldehydes. These reusable networks catalyze these reactions heterogeneously and efficiently.