Exploring the metallochromic behavior of pentacyanidoferrates in visual, electronic and Raman spot tests

An Acad Bras Cienc. 2019;91(2):e20180315. doi: 10.1590/0001-3765201920180315. Epub 2019 Apr 25.

Abstract

Pentacyanidoferrate(II) complexes of aromatic N-heterocycles, such as 4-cyanopyridine, exhibit characteristic colors and strong metallochromism associated with the donor-acceptor interactions of the metal ions with the cyanide ligands. In the presence of transition metal ions insoluble polymeric complexes are formed, displaying bright yellow, red, brown and green colors with zinc(II), nickel(II), copper(II) and iron(III) ions, respectively. Such metallochromic response is better observed on filter paper, allowing applications in analytical spot tests. The effects can be explored visually and probed by means of modern instrumental facilities, including spectrophotometric and resonance Raman techniques. In this way, by using the cyanopyridinepentacyanidoferrates, the Prussian Blue test for ferric ions can be extended to the entire row of transition metal elements, providing a new and modern insight of such classical Feigl's spot tests.

MeSH terms

  • Color*
  • Coloring Agents / chemistry
  • Ferrous Compounds / chemistry*
  • Ligands
  • Materials Testing
  • Metals / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Reference Values
  • Spectrophotometry
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Ferrous Compounds
  • Ligands
  • Metals
  • pentacyanoferrate (II)