Direct observation of molecular-level template action leading to self-assembly of a porous framework.
The molecular steps involved in the self-assembly of Cu(3)(BTC)(2) (BTC=1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid) metal-organic frameworks that enclose Keggin-type H(3)PW(12)O(40) heteropolyacid molecules were unraveled by using solution (17)O, (31)P, and (183)W NMR spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, near-IR spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering. In aqueous solution, complexation of Cu(2+) ions with Keggin-type heteropolyacids was observed. Cu(2+) ions are arranged around the Keggin structure so that linking through benzenetricarboxylate groups results in the formation of the Cu(3)(BTC)(2) MOF structure HKUST-1. This is a unique instance in which a templating mechanism that relies on specific molecular-level matching and leads to explicit nanoscale building units can be observed in situ during formation of the synthetic nanoporous material.
Bajpe
Sneha R
SR
Centre for Surface Science and Catalysis, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, K. U. Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 23, Leuven B-3001, Belgium. Sneha.BajpeRohita@biw.kuleuven.be
Kirschhock
Christine E A
CE
Aerts
Alexander
A
Breynaert
Eric
E
Absillis
Gregory
G
Parac-Vogt
Tatjana N
TN
Giebeler
Lars
L
Martens
Johan A
JA
D003300:Copper / Q000737:chemistry*; D007477:Ions / Q000737:chemistry*; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; D008670:Metals / Q000737:chemistry*; D008958:Models, Molecular; D009942:Organometallic Compounds / Q000737:chemistry*; D016062:Porosity; D012996:Solutions; D013056:Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet; D017973:Tungsten Compounds / Q000737:chemistry*; D000099294:Polyoxometalates
D003300:Copper; D007477:Ions; D008670:Metals; D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D012996:Solutions; D017973:Tungsten Compounds; C102296:polyoxometalate I; D000099294:Polyoxometalates