Solvation-controlled luminescence of Sm^II complexes

(Figure Presented) The jewel in the crown: Addition of a crown ether to SmI2 in acetonitrile produces a complex that insulates the Sm II ion from interaction with solvent and substrates. Consequently, solvent-induced luminescence quenching is decreased, leading to a significantly increased excited-state lifetime. Thus, it is possible to generate highly stable and luminescent LnII complexes in solution through proper choice of ligand and solvent. © 2007 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.