Solvent modulated assembly of two Zn metal–organic frameworks: syntheses, luminescence, and gas adsorption properties

Abstract

A 2D wave-like layered framework based on benzotriazole-5-carboxylic acid (H₂btca), 2,2′-bipy and zinc ions – [Zn(btca)(2,2′-bipy)]_n (1) – has been resoundingly designed and synthesized by a solvothermal method. By changing the solvent from DMF to DMA, a 3D porous framework – [Zn₂(btca)₂(bpy)(H₂O)]_n·n(DMA) (2) – was obtained. Complexes 1 and 2 have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and further characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. Complex 1 shows an AA packing 2D layered structure and complex 2 displays a 3D open honeycomb framework with a (3,4)-connected 2-nodal fsc topology. Moreover, gas adsorption of 2a (the activated form of 2) and the luminescence properties of 1, 2 and 2a have also been investigated intensively.