title: Metal-organic framework structures--how closely are they related to classical inorganic structures?
abstract: Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as an important family of compounds for which new properties are increasingly being found. The potential for such compounds appears to be immense, especially in catalysis, sorption and separation processes. In order to appreciate the properties and to design newer frameworks it is necessary to understand the structures from a fundamental perspective. The use of node, net and vertex symbols has helped in simplifying some of the complex MOF structures. Many MOF structures are beginning to be described as derived from inorganic structures. In this tutorial review, we have provided the basics of the node, the net and the vertex symbols and have explained some of the MOF structures. In addition, we have also attempted to provide some leads towards designing newer structures/topologies.
authors.affiliation: Framework Solids Laboratory, Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India. snatarajan@sscu.iisc.ernet.in
authors.forename: Srinivasan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Natarajan
authors.forename: Partha
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Mahata