Pyridyl-β-diketonates: Versatile ligands for generation of functional nanostructures

Over the past few decades, substantial progress has been achieved in the design and synthesis of diverse coordination architectures with unique physicochemical properties. The precise selection of organic ligands, combined with metal centers that exhibit defined coordination behavior enables the generation of complex systems with encoded structural features, such as tailored geometries, internal cavities, and flexible frameworks. Attributed to their well-defined structure and versatile functionalities, these architectures have attracted increasing attention in various areas, including catalysis, molecular recognition, host-guest chemistry, separation and magnetism, among others. This review is intended to be a comprehensive assessment of a range of functional metallosupramolecular nanostructures constructed using a specific family of organic ligands, namely pyridyl- β -diketonates. Such ambidentate species incorporate two distinct and divergent donor groups within their structures, creating ideal platforms for multiple metal ions, which has consequently allowed for the generation of a variety of homo- and heterometallic coordination assemblies. While significant focus has been directed toward the synthesis and characterization of these complex assemblies, a key aspect lies in identifying systems that exhibit promising application potential. Owing to their inherent structural features and functional capabilities, these architectures are viable candidates for applications spanning different scientific domains. Through insights from recent advances, we aim to provide a critical evaluation of the current state of the art in these areas, as well as to expose the potential avenues for harnessing such systems as functional materials, emphasizing their wide-ranging applicability in scientific, industrial, and technological contexts. • Recent advances in the design and synthesis of a variety of coordination architectures with tailored properties are discussed. • The substantial role of pyridyl- β -diketonate ligands is highlighted in the construction of metallosupramolecular assemblies. • Such nanostructures are demonstrated as functional materials with high application potential across diverse domains. • The study explores prospective research avenues to generate innovative nanomaterials with specific functionalities.