Factors affecting luminescence and aurophilicity on digold(I) complexes and their potential as cation probes

In the last few years we have analysed the factors that affect the structures and luminescence properties of Au(I) compounds, specifically in relation with the presence of aurophilic contacts and their application as cation probes. EXAFS studies have allowed us to obtain for the first time direct structural data of dissolved Au(I) compounds. An overview of the work reported to date is presented here. The optical properties of complex Au₂Cl₂(μ-dpephos)] (dpephos =bis(2-diphenylphosphino) phenylether, 1) have been revisited and new results are now included. New aspects on the use of the complexes as Ag(I) probes are also discussed.