SO42− anion directed hexagonal-prismatic cages via cooperative C–H⋯O hydrogen bonds

Abstract

Hexagonal-prismatic cages are constructed from cubane-like Ni₄(μ₃-OH)₄ clusters generated in situ and clip-like organic ligands. The SO₄²⁻ anions act as the template for the formation of the above cages via weak cooperative C–H⋯O hydrogen bonds. Further research shows that three internal hydrogen atoms of the bib ligand or its derivatives are necessary because they are all involved in the cooperative C–H⋯O hydrogen bonding with the captured SO₄²⁻ anions. More importantly, not only the size and shape but also the charge of the SO₄²⁻ anions dominates the formation of the cages.