Crystal structure and fluorescence spectrum of the complex [Eu (III) (TTA)₃(phen)]

The title complex Eu(III)(TTA)₃(phen) (where TTA = thenoyltrifluoroacetone monoanion; phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) has been synthesized in mixed solvents of acetone and ethanol (1:1 volume ratio) and its crystal structure has been determined by X-ray diffraction. The complex crystals are triclinic, space group P 1( # 2) with cell dimensions of a = 1.3241 (2) nm, b = 1.5278(4) nm, c = 0.9755(3) nm, a = 92.49 (2)°, β = 102.57(2)°, γ = 91.62(2)°, V = 1.9268(8) nm³, Z = 2, μ(Mo Kα) = 18.77 cm^-1, D_x = 1.720 g/cm³. The coordination geometry of Eu atom is a distorted square antiprism, and the encapsulated structure that can meet the structural requirement of the typical europium luminescent sensor. The fluorescence spectrum suggests that the complex is a strong photoluminescent material.