Exploring the dual functionality of an ytterbium complex for luminescence thermometry and slow magnetic relaxation

We present a comprehensive investigation of the magnetic and optical properties of an ytterbium complex, which combines two desirable and practical features into a single molecular system. Based upon YbIII ions that promote near-infrared optical activity and a chemical backbone that is ideal for an in-depth understanding of the magnetic behaviour, we have designed a multifunctional opto-magnetic species that operates as a luminescent thermometer and as a single-molecule magnet (SMM). Our magnetic investigations, in conjunction with ab initio calculations, reveal one of the highest energy barriers reported for an YbIII-based complex. Moreover, we correlate this anisotropic barrier with the emission spectrum of the compound, wherein we provide a complete assignment of the energetic profile of the complex. Such studies lay the foundation for the design of exciting multi-faceted materials that are able to retain information at the single-molecule level and possess built-in thermal self-monitoring capabilities102867996808CONSELHO NACIONAL DE DESENVOLVIMENTO CIENTÍFICO E TECNOLÓGICO - CNPQCOORDENAÇÃO DE APERFEIÇOAMENTO DE PESSOAL DE NÍVEL SUPERIOR - CAPESFUNDAÇÃO DE AMPARO À PESQUISA DO ESTADO DE SÃO PAULO - FAPESPNão temNão tem2013/22127-2; 2014/50906-9G. B., R. M., E. H. and M. M. gratefully acknowledge the University of Ottawa and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Discovery and CGS-D grants) for supporting this research. M.-J. M. gratefully acknowledges funding by a fellowship of the School of Analytical Sciences Adlershof (DFG GSC 1013). M.-J. M. and U. R.-G. gratefully acknowledge the calibration of spectrofluorometer FSP920 by Dr J. Pauli and fruitful discussion with Dr C. Würth and Dr A. Güttler. D. A. G. is indebted to CNPq for the PDJ Fellowship. F. A. S. is indebted to INOMAT (FAPESP: 2013/22127-2 and 2014/50906-9), CNPq and CAPES for financial suppor