Photoactive platinum complexes of stoichiometry [Pt(RCCCR)L]0/+ (R=Me, nBu and L=[BOND]CN, [BOND]C≡CPh, [BOND]N≡CCH3, [BOND]Py, [BOND]CO) featuring pincer-type bis N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands (RCCCR) were synthesized. Organometallic syntheses of these complexes are facile and achievable through standard laboratory procedures. Control of intermolecular Pt⋅⋅⋅Pt interaction, π–π stacking, and emission tuning is achieved through suitable choice of the NHC-wingtip substituent (R) and the auxiliary ligand (L). Exposure to specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or mechanical grinding triggers changes in emission colors, which render these complexes photofunctional. Solid-state structures and photoluminescence results are described herein.
