Synthesis of first row transition metal carboxylate complexes by ring opening reactions of cyclic anhydrides

Hydrolytic and solvolytic ring opening reactions of phthalic anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride and 2,3-pyridine dicarboxylic anhydride in the presence of various transition metal salts with or without a ancillary ligands were studied. The reactions were found to be dependent on stoichiometry of ligand and types of anhydride used. In the case of pyromellitic dianhydride selective ring opening reaction by cobalt(II) ions gave 1,3-benzene dicarboxylate derivatives, whereas use of copper(II) ions gave 1,4-benzene dicarboxylate derivatives. Preference for methanolysis was seen in the case of copper (II) promoted reactions of pyromellitic dianhydride in the presence of 1:1 metal to 1,10-phenanthroline ratio.