Reactions of [Ir(C⁁N)2Cl]2 [HC⁁N = 2-(3-R-phenyl)pyridine, 2-(3-R-phenylpyrazole) R = H, Me] with Me2-phencat give luminescent complexes [Ir(C⁁N)2(Me2-phencat)][PF6] (Me2-2a, b, c)[PF6]. Deprotection of the methoxy groups with BBr3 is problematic as simultaneous bromination of the cyclometallated phenyl groups occurs. However, deprotection of Me2-phencat with BBr3 followed by complexation with [Ir(C⁁N)2Cl]2 gives luminescent complexes [Ir(C⁁N)2(H2-phencat)][PF6] (H2-3a, c)[PF6], which are luminescent sensors for molybdate.
