Switching the local symmetry from d_5h to d_4h for single-molecule magnets by non-coordinating solvents

A solvent effect towards the performance of two single-molecule magnets (SMMs) was observed. The tetrahydrofuran and toluene solvents can switch the equatorial coordinated 4-Phenylpyridine (4-PhPy) molecules from five to four, respectively, in [Dy(O^t Bu)₂ (4-PhPy)₅ ]BPh₄ 1 and Na{[Dy(O^t Bu)₂ (4-PhPy)₄ ][BPh₄ ]₂ }·2thf·hex 2. This alternation significantly changes the local coordination symmetry of the Dy(III) center from D_5h to D_4h for 1 and 2, seperately. Magnetic studies show that the magnetic anisotropy energy barrier of 2 is higher than that of 1, while the relation of blocking temperature is just on the contrary due to the symmetry effect. The calculations of the electrostatic potential successfully explained the driving force of solvents for the molecular structure change, confirming the feasibility of adjusting the performance of SMMs via diverse solvents.