Quantum coherence in a triangular Cu3 complex

We report pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance investigations on [(CuL)(3)(OH)](ClO4)(2) H2O, where HL = (E)-2-((3-(methylamino)propylimino) methyl)phenol, to assess its suitability as a qubit. We measured spin-lattice relaxation times up to T-1 = 698(2)s at 5K in methanolic frozen solution. The spin-lattice relaxation is driven by the direct process. The phase memory time was determined to be up to T-m = 1290(3)ns in methanolic frozen solution and T-m = 392(5)ns in powder at 5K, respectively. By means of both continuous waves and pulsed ENDOR spectroscopy, interactions to protons, nitrogen and copper nuclei were observed. The couplings to the protons were shown to be due to dipolar and through bond interactions.