Inverted aggregates of luminescent ruthenium metallosurfactants

Metallosurfactants and their resulting aggregates combine unique spectroscopic and reactivity properties due to space confinement. We have found the requirements to obtain the first inverted micelles with luminescent metallosurfactants. The compounds possess several long linear chains that favour the solubility of the highly water-soluble metal polar head in non-polar phases. The size and shape of the aggregates have been determined using dynamic light scattering. Atomic force microscopy allowed us to study the dry structure of the aggregates on surfaces. Additionally, the self-assembly of the metal complexes in solution have been monitored by steady state and time-resolved absorption and emission spectroscopy.