Two novel κ2-C,N-pyridine bridged [FeFe]-H2ase mimics (1 and 2) have been prepared and are shown to function as efficient molecular catalysts for electrocatalytic proton reduction. The elemental and structural composition of the complexes are confirmed by NMR and IR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Electrochemical investigations reveal that the complexes reduce protons at their first reduction potential, resulting in the lowest overpotential (120 mV) ever reported for [FeFe]-H2ase mimics in proton reduction catalysis when mild acid (phenol) is used as proton source.
Keywords: Electrochemistry; Homogeneous catalysis; Hydrogenase mimics; Iron; Proton reduction.