Strong Affinity of Triazolium-Appended Dipyrromethenes (TADs) for BF4−

Abstract

Because BF4− is a labile, non- or weakly coordinating anion, it is generally chosen by chemists who do not want the anion to interfere with the associated cation. Herein, we demonstrate that BF4− actually strongly binds to triazole-appended dipyrromethenes (TADs). In particular, HETCOR NMR experiments and DFT calculations were used to rationalize the results observed with anion titrations. Hence, special care should be taken when considering that BF4− is innocent.